Sri Lanka Publishes Five New ENCs, Expanding National Chart Coverage

The Sri Lanka National Hydrographic Office (SLNHO), in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service (SLNHS), has achieved another significant milestone in its ongoing mission to enhance maritime safety and navigation with the publication of five new Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) covering Sri Lankan waters.

This accomplishment reflects the immense dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts of the officers and sailors of the Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service temporarily attached to the SLNHO, whose expertise in hydrographic surveying, data processing, and chart production has been instrumental in the successful delivery of these high-quality digital navigational products.

With the release of these latest charts, the total number of Sri Lanka (LK) ENCs has increased to 17, marking steady and progressive advancement in the country’s national hydrographic programme. This expansion highlights the growing capability of SLNHO in fulfilling its national mandate and meeting Sri Lanka’s international obligations for maritime safety, particularly under Chapter V of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).

The newly published ENCs incorporate the latest bathymetric and hydrographic data, significantly improving the accuracy, reliability, and safety of navigation within Sri Lankan waters, including key shipping routes and sea lines of communication. These developments are expected to enhance the confidence of international shipping operators while contributing to the overall efficiency of maritime trade.

Beyond their critical role in navigational safety, the ENC production programme of SLNHO has also emerged as a valuable source of foreign revenue for Sri Lanka. Through the international distribution of ENC products to global chart service providers and maritime stakeholders, the Office has generated substantial income in recent years. In parallel, hydrographic consultancy and survey services provided for national development projects have further contributed to the country’s economic growth.

The continued progress in ENC production demonstrates the strong partnership between SLNHO and the Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service, as well as their shared commitment to developing a modern, resilient, and internationally compliant hydrographic capability. Ongoing efforts in systematic surveying, regular chart updates, and capacity building remain central to this mission.

The publication of these five new ENCs represents another important step in strengthening maritime safety, supporting national maritime governance, and advancing Sri Lanka’s position as a responsible maritime nation while contributing to the sustainable growth of the blue economy.

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