Pakistan coast is influenced by intensive SW Monsoon waves and currents including erosion and siltation. The deposition of silt by river Indus also interacts with the shore processes. The inundation of the coast therefore, requires a systematic hydraulic and hydro-dynamic investigation all along the coast. Data on waves, tides, currents and littoral transport are collected for application in coastal protection, planning of ports etc.

Numerical models of harbours, bays, estuaries for investigating the effects of tidal heights and currents are also prepared. Occupance and path of cyclones and effect of storm surges on the coast are studied for evaluating shore erosion, through Numerical Models.

There is a need for a systematic hydrodynamic and hydraulic investigation all along the coast, which has considerable impact on design study of various marine structures, establishment of coastal industry, intake water system for nuclear plants, and heavy industry and draining into the sea, etc.

A base has already been started in the NIO with a modest system. It is proving of immense utility in various aspects of the work. The enhanced computer capability will enable the research in NIO to cover such fields as Satellite Imagery interpretation and remote sensing. Remote sensing and latest improvements in the technique have enabled the hydrographic conditions (i.e. sea water temperature, salinity etc. distribution and movement) to be observed over large area through satellite signals.