World Hydrography Day 2025 Theme, Celebration and History

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History of World Hydrography Day 

World Hydrography Day was first celebrated in 2006. It was officially recognised by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2005 by Resolution A/RES/60/30 to highlight the importance of hydrography. However, the roots go back to 1921, when the International Hydrographic Bureau (now the IHO) was formed in Monaco. 

The IHO has worked for over a century to standardise hydrographic practices and promote safety at sea. After official recognition in 2006, World Hydrography Day has been celebrated every year on 21st June, the date marking the founding of the IHO. This day allows hydrographic offices and institutions around the world to showcase their work, educate the public, and inspire future marine scientists.

What is Hydrography?

Hydrography is the science of measuring and describing physical features of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes, and rivers. It includes mapping the seafloor, measuring water depths, and identifying hazards for navigation.

Hydrographers use modern tools like sonar, echo sounders, and satellite technology to gather underwater data. This information is then used to produce nautical charts, guide shipping, and plan coastal development. Hydrography also plays an important role in:

• Climate change studies

• Marine biodiversity research

• Tsunami warning systems

• Submarine cable laying

In short, hydrography helps us understand and manage our waters safely and sustainably.

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Importance of Hydrography

Hydrography matters more than most people realise. Its data is crucial for:

1. Safe Navigation: Accurate sea charts prevent ship accidents and support international trade.

2. Environmental Protection: It helps identify coral reefs, fragile ecosystems, and areas vulnerable to pollution.

3. Defence and Security: Navies rely on hydrographic maps for submarine operations and coastal surveillance.

4. Disaster Risk Reduction: Hydrography helps model floods, tsunamis, and coastal erosion to save lives.

5. Marine Development: Ports, offshore wind farms, and underwater pipelines need hydrographic data to be built safely.

For coastal nations like India, hydrography is essential for protecting marine boundaries, managing fisheries, and supporting the shipping industry.

International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)

The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) is a global authority that sets standards for hydrography. Established in 1921 and headquartered in Monaco, the IHO currently includes 102 member states. Its main goals are to coordinate hydrographic surveys worldwide, promote the use of consistent nautical charts and services, facilitate the exchange of technical knowledge, and support capacity-building efforts. 

India is an active member of the IHO and is home to one of the oldest hydrographic offices in the world, the National Hydrographic Office (NHO), located in Dehradun. To further its mission, the IHO also conducts workshops, offers training, and publishes guidelines to help countries enhance their hydrographic capabilities.

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World Hydrography Day 2025 Activities

World Hydrography Day 2025 will be celebrated with events highlighting the importance of seabed mapping in ocean protection and sustainable development:

• West African Hydrographic Summit (June 19–21, Abuja, Nigeria): This event will feature keynote talks, panel discussions, product launches, exhibitions, and networking among maritime professionals.

• South African Navy Events (June 20–21, East London): Activities include a hydrography lecture, book launch, ship tours, tech demos, and a parade, highlighting naval contributions to ocean mapping.

• Global Outreach: IHO will promote the day online through social media and a dedicated webpage. Countries and organizations will share content using hashtags #WorldHydrographyDay and #WHD.

• Community Engagement: In India, the Indian Navy’s Hydrographic Department often organises coastal clean-ups, ship visits, and community engagement activities to educate the public.

In essence, World Hydrography Day 2025 is a reminder of how much we depend on the oceans and on the experts who help us understand them. By supporting hydrography, we ensure safer seas, stronger economies, and a healthier planet.

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