New research vessel for hydrographic surveys

Ridma Dissanayake

Within a few months, NARA will deploy a new research vessel fully geared to conduct hydrographic and oceanographic surveys and research in the maritime environment. It will be a great boost to NARA to cater to the nation's needs in keeping with the vision for future development of the country, said Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne.

Minister Senaratne was addressing the inauguration of the 12th North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission held at the Hotel Taj Samudra yesterday.

This is a four day meeting which will end on March 23. Last year, 11 nations participated in this meeting. This time it increased to 15. "As a seafaring nation and situated in a prime location of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has a great potential to develop as a maritime hub in the Asian region.

Therefore,with the intention of revitalizing the once famed Silk Route, President Mahinda Rajapaksa has initiated vast development in the Southern coastal belt such as the Hambanthota new harbour project," the minister said.

The National Hydrographic Office of NARA is entrusted with the task of providing updated hydrographic data and relevant information for the safety of navigation.

The minister said: "The discipline of hydrography encourages many aquatic fields including fisheries, environment, defence, exploration for hydrocarbon and ocean surveys in addition to maritime affairs. I am confident that the developed maritime nations who are represented at this commission will extend their support and guidance to reap maximum benefits in time to come."

Addressing the gathering NARA Chairman S. G. Samarasundara said: "I believe that this 12th North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission will be a remarkable milestone in Sri Lanka's journey to move forward to make the island a maritime logistic hub in the Asia region."

Sri Lanka hosted this event six years ago and since then it has benefited all participating countries in numerous ways.

International Hydrographic Organization Chairman Admiral Alaxzandros Maratos, North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission Chairman Rear Admiral Nick Lambert, Sri Lanka Navy Director General (Operations) Rear Admiral Jayantha Perera, representatives of the diplomatic corps, delegates from IHO member states and representatives of allied local institutions also participated.

http://www.dailynews.lk/2012/03/21/news26.asp