Joint Secretary (Organization), Ministry of Science and Technology Visits NIO

Date: 17 August 2026

Mr. Farhan Akhtar Hakro, Joint Secretary (Organization), Ministry of Science and Technology, visited the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Karachi, on 17 August 2026.

During the visit, he was received by Engr. Naimatullah Sohoo, Director General NIO, along with senior officers and scientists of the Institute. The visit provided an opportunity to discuss NIO’s scientific activities, research initiatives and its role in supporting marine science and oceanographic research in Pakistan.

The visit reflects the Ministry of Science and Technology’s continued engagement with NIO and its efforts to strengthen scientific research, institutional collaboration and the effective utilization of scientific expertise for national development.

Independence Day Celebration – NIO

Date: 14 August 2026

The National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) proudly celebrated the 79th Independence Day of Pakistan on 14 August 2026 at its Karachi headquarters with patriotic spirit and national pride.

To mark this historic occasion, the NIO building was beautifully decorated in the national colours of green and white, adorned with Pakistani flags and Independence Day-themed decorations. The vibrant display reflected the spirit of unity, freedom, peace and progress.

On the occasion, Engr. Naimatullah Sohoo, Director General NIO, addressed the gathering and highlighted the historical significance of Pakistan’s independence and the importance of self-reliance, scientific advancement and environmental responsibility in achieving national progress. He also paid tribute to the sacrifices made for the freedom we enjoy today.

The celebration served as a reminder of NIO’s commitment to contributing towards a stronger, greener and more resilient Pakistan.

The National Oceanographic Museum was officially inaugurated on Saturday, 27 June 2026, in a special ceremony marking an important milestone for marine science and oceanographic research in Pakistan. The ceremony was graced by Mr. Shahid Iqbal Baloch, Federal Secretary, Ministry of Science & Technology (MoST), as the Chief Guest.

Following the inauguration, the Federal Secretary, accompanied by Senator Mr. Karim Ahmed Khwaja and other distinguished guests, toured the museum's exhibits. During the visit, Director General Engr. Naimatullah Sohoo, along with former Directors General of the National Institute of Oceanography, briefed the guests on the museum's collections and highlighted Pakistan's rich maritime heritage and the Institute's contributions to oceanographic research.

The museum will serve as a national center to promote marine science, preserve Pakistan's oceanographic heritage, and inspire students, researchers, and the public about the importance of our oceans.

National Institute of Oceanography Conducts Comprehensive R&D Survey in the Indus Delta Region The National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Karachi, successfully carried out a multidisciplinary Research and Development (R&D) survey in the Indus Delta region to collect scientific data and assess the prevailing environmental and oceanographic conditions of the coastal ecosystem. During the field campaign, NIO scientists and technical staff conducted extensive oceanographic investigations at various locations within the deltaic area. As part of the survey activities, an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) was deployed in Dabbo Creek to measure water current velocities, tidal dynamics, and circulation patterns. The survey team also carried out Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth (CTD) profiling to record important physical parameters of seawater, including temperature, salinity, conductivity, density, and other oceanographic characteristics. These measurements provide valuable information regarding water column structure and environmental variability in the Indus Delta ecosystem. In addition, comprehensive sampling activities were undertaken for multidisciplinary scientific analyses. Water samples were collected for chemical and environmental assessments, including the determination of nutrient concentrations and water quality parameters. Sediment (soil) samples were obtained for geological and sedimentological studies aimed at understanding seabed characteristics, sediment transport processes, and coastal morphology. The biological component of the survey included the collection of phytoplankton and culture samples to evaluate marine biodiversity, primary productivity, and ecosystem health. These samples will support ongoing research on marine biological resources and environmental monitoring. The data and samples collected during this R&D mission will contribute to NIO's ongoing efforts to enhance scientific understanding of Pakistan's coastal and marine environment, particularly the ecologically significant Indus Delta region. The findings are expected to support evidence-based decision-making for sustainable coastal resource management, environmental protection, and future marine research programs.