BN, with the help of the French government, in 1996 adopted a modern digital surveying system. Since then it has conducted several hydrographic surveys in the coastal belt of Bangladesh and has produced a number of international standard charts, including the three charts of the INT series, currently in the final stage of production. BN has given great emphasis to developing skilled manpower for better utilisation of high-tech hydrographic equipment and quality products.

The BN Hydrographic & Oceanographic Center (BN HOC) is the core establishment of the Hydrographic Department, which is basically responsible for data handling and the production and circulation of navigational charts and publications. It also renders technical assistance to BN hydrographic ships and its school when deemed necessary. The BN Hydrographic School conducts various courses for survey recorders and a Cat-B course for officers. The BN Hydrographic Department has two offshore survey ships, two coastal survey vessels, and two small survey-launches for river survey. In 2001 Bangladesh became the seventieth national member state of IHO.

BN is committed to improving her existing hydrographic capability, along with all other various related segments, to meet international standards for survey work. It has introduced the latest technology in its Hydrographic Department so as optimally to uphold the reputation of the institution. Adequate efforts have been made to train BN personnel in the best international and nation training institutes. In this regard, the Hydrographic Department would like to extend special thanks to France, India, Italy, Turkey, UK, the USA, and to other organisations such as IHO and IMO for providing their enormous support.

A large portion of the Bangladesh coastline is highly indented and formed by the Ganga-Bramaputra delta, consisting of numerous unstable islands. This makes its geological nature unique. Therefore Bangladesh needs frequent survey in her coastal belt and offshore areas, as well as collection of adequate data to ascertain accurate seabed morphology of her long continental shelf.

Captain Mir Imdadul Haque, (H1), psc, BN
Director of Hydrography, Bangladesh Navy