President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has constituted the Maldives Hydrographic Service, under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defence. The new authority was established under the discretion vested in the President by Section 116 of the Constitution of Maldives.
The number 487 should be used in all correspondence addressed to the new authority as per the numbering system for state agencies, according to a directive issued by the President's Office. The tasks assigned to the Maldives Hydrographic Service include conducting hydrographic surveys in the regions of the Maldives, collecting information, and obtaining information on hydrographic surveys conducted for the needs of government agencies and private individuals.
It also includes providing hydrographic information to government agencies, providing them with technical advice and consultation, publishing and publishing nautical publications. Other tasks of the institution include providing information on the safety and security of sea travel in the Maldivian territories, disseminating such information in accordance with established guidelines, and identifying changes in the oceans of the Maldives, as well as changes in islands, reefs, and seas.
The agency will represent the Maldives in international organisations and will work closely with foreign countries in the field of hydrography. The agency will also seek international assistance to develop the hydrography sector in the Maldives.
The Maldives Hydrographic Service is also tasked with training people in the hydrography sector and providing technical advice and assistance to relevant authorities in developing human resources in the field.