Deputy Ministry of Defence Convenes Meeting to Enhance
National Hydrographic Office Capabilities
December 31, 2024
The Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) chaired a meeting at his office today (Dec 31), to address the critical needs of the Sri Lanka National Hydrographic Office (SLNHO). Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Chairman of the National Hydrographic Council (NHC), the Chief Hydrographer of the Sri Lanka Navy, and representatives of SLNHO attended the meeting which focused on enhancing the SLNHO's operational efficiency.
The Chairman NHC presented a comprehensive overview of hydrography’s significance on national security, maritime safety, economic benefits, and outlined the SLNHO’s progress in chart production, and opportunities for collaboration with the UK Hydrographic Office. He highlighted pressing challenges in budget, training, capacity building, and equipment shortages, calling for international support to further develop SLNHO’s capabilities.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the SLNHO under the National Hydrography Act, No.7 of 2024, prioritizing hydrographic initiatives and ensuring efficient regulation of related activities to meet national objectives.
