Introduction – World Hydrography Day is observed every year on June 21 across the world to spread awareness about hydrography and honor the work of hydrographers. The main purpose of this international day is to raise awareness about the protection of safe navigation and also concentrate on spreading the work of hydrographers.

Hydrography is a branch of applied sciences and mostly deals with the description and measurement of the physical features of coastal areas, seas, lakes, rivers, and oceans. The work of hydrographers is to predict changes in the water bodies for the safety of navigation and support of all marine activities.  

History – International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) was established in the year 1921 that works on the issues of marine life. International Hydrographic Organization proposed the idea to celebrate World Hydrography Day to honor the work of hydrographers all over the world. The United Nations General Assembly accepted the suggestion in the year 2005 and declared to observe World Hydrography Day annually on June 21 which was chosen to celebrate the anniversary of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). Firstly, World Hydrography Day was celebrated on June 21 in the year 2006 across the world.

Theme – The theme of World Hydrography Day in the year 2022 is ‘Hydrography contributing to the United Nations Ocean Decade’ to celebrate this day across the world.

Significance – The main aim of World Hydrography Day is to spread awareness about the safe navigation and marine practices of sailors across the world. This international day aims to encourage the importance of hydrography and commemorate the work of hydrographers. On this day, there are several activities such as public events,  demonstrations, conferences, dinners, workshops, awards, and distribution of promotional materials are conducted all around the world.