The theme of the day this year is 'Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC), an essential element of safety at Sea and Efficient Maritime Operations'.

Hydrography is the applied branch of science, which is primarily applied for ensuring safe navigational passages through oceans, seas and rivers, said an ISPR press release.

Unlike other sectors, Bangladesh is not falling much behind in the field of hydrography. Since independence, BIWTA has been surveying the inland waterways and from the 80s Bangladesh Navy Hydrographic Department is engaged in seaward survey to provide safe navigation at sea and coastal area.

As more than 90 percent of the trade is carried out through the sea lines of communication of the country, hydrographic surveying is contributing substantially to the growth of the country's trade and economy.

It is expected that Bangladesh Navy will soon step into ENC (Electronic Navigation Chart) production, which would lure the mariners and traders worldwide to use Chittagong and Mongla ports, the release added.