31- BAY OF BENGAL NORTHERN PORTION Krishnapatnam Port One of the India’s largest and fastest growing seaports, Krishnapatnam Port has emerged as a world-class port with outstanding services and facilities. It is fast becoming a port of choice for all international cargo originating from and destined to the Southern and Central India. The port has all weather capability. The port was privatised in 1996 and operated by Krishnapatnam Port Company Ltd (KPCL). The port is developing into a modern deep draught multipurpose all weather port, protected by two breakwaters, handling all kinds of dry bulk and break bulk cargoes. Pennar River runs north and east through the state of Andhra Pradesh into the Bay of Bengal. It is 371 miles long, with a drainage basin 21,318 sq mi large. The river basin receives 500 mm average rain fall annually. Nellore, the chief town of the district stands on rising ground on the S bank of Penner River about 15 miles inland; the town is connected with the Indian railway system. Narsimakhonda Pagoda, standing on a hill 6 miles W of Nellore is sometimes visible from seaward on W bearings but is not very prominent. Penner River to Ramaypatnam. The coast N of Penner River is low and sandy but the clumps of casuarina trees are more continuous and the higher than S of the river. Isakapalle (14º 44'N, 80º 06' E), a village lies close within the coast 10 miles NNW of the mouth of Penner River. Isakapalle Light is exhibited from a white circular concrete tower with red bands, 30m in height at position (14º 44'.87N, 80º 06'.54E). Iskapalli is a important place for salt production in Nellore district. Iskapalli is 8 m above sea level. Between Isakapalle and Ramaypatnam, 19 miles N, the coast continues low and sandy and for the first 7 miles is covered with low scrub with a single large clump of tall casuarinas about 5 miles N of Iskapalli. Farther N there are at first a few detached clumps, then the trees are very even as far as Ramaypatnam. Tummalapenta, a village, lies on coast 10 miles N of Iskapalli. A shoal with a least depth of 5m lies about 2 miles offshore abreast the village. Depth are very irregular within about1 mile of the shoal and for about 8 miles N of it. The coast in this vicinity should not be approached within a depth of 18m until N of Ramaypatnam (15º 03'N, 80º 03'E). Ramaypatnam to Kottapatnam Ramayapatnam Port (15º 02' N, 80º 03'E) is set to be a major port to be built at Ramayapatnam in the Prakasam District of Andhra Pradesh. Ramayapatnam is one of two new ports that are to be set up by the Government of India along India’s east coast Between Ramaypatnam and Kottapatnam, a town about 25 miles NNE, the coast continues to be low and sandy with several detached clumps of casuarinas, the entrance to Manneru River (15º 11'N, 80º 05'E) falls in between. The river is navigable only by boats. Kottapatnam, a town lying one mile inland has a prominent white obelisk, 15m high, standing 1 mile NW. A shoal with a least depth of 2.7 m lies 3 to 5 miles NE of Kottapatnam. Maneru River. The Maneru river or Manair (15º 13'N, 80º 05'.E) is a tributary to the Godavari River . The river's length is approximately 130 kms. Dokkalavagu, Uppuvagu, Pillaperu and Upputeru are the main tributaries of the Maneru river. Kottapatnam to False Divi Point The coast between Kottapatnam and False Divi Point, about 41 miles ENE, is low and sandy. Nizampatnam Bay lies between Kottapatnam and False Divi Point (15º 43' N, 80º 50'E); the bay indents the coast to a distance of about 14 miles. Except for the shoals near Mutapolli Bank the bay is free from dangers and its shore may be approached with safety to a depth of 9m. Vadarevu (15º 47' 44"N, 80º 24' 36"E), is a small fishing village well connected by road to the nearest Railway station Chirala, about 26 miles NNE. Government of Andhra Pradesh has designated the port of Vadarevu as a Greenfield port and as specialized port for Ship breaking. There is a small port office but hardly any commercial activity presently exists. A number of fishing trawlers of medium and small size operate from here. Nizampatnam (15º 53' N, 80º 38.3' E) Nizampatnam is a small fishing harbour. The entrance in to the channel is possible during high water only for vessels with draughts of upto 1.2m. This is due to the existence of a bar with about 0.6m least depth over it, which extends across the channel. The entry in to channel is further subject to weather on account of the presence of breakers over the bar during rough weather. Small quantities of fuel and water are supplied in barrels. Trading and shipping activities are negligible. Nizampatnam is well connected by road to Bapatla (approx 20 Kms). Krishna River, rising 40 miles from the western ghats on the W side of India, flows E across the country into the Bay of Bengal by several branches, of which the mouth of one is close E of False Divi Point. Krishna River Delta, a wide alluvial plain formed by the enormous amount of silt carried by several branches of the river, extends seaward between the town of Nizampatnam and Machilipatnam. Divi Point is the NE extremity and False Divi Point the SW extremity of the delta. Machilipatnam Roads (16º 10' N, 81º 15'E), an open roadstead, lies off the mouth of Machilipatnam Creek, 13 miles NNE of Divi Point. The Port of Machilipatnam lies 5 miles within the entrance of a shallow winding waterway comprising a creek and a canal. Machilipatnam to Narasapur Point The coast between Machilipatnam and Narasapur Point (16º 18'N, 81º 43'E), 32 miles ENE, is low and wooded. With care it may be approached to depths of 15m except off Narasapur point which should not be approached within 37m at night. Vashita Godavari River, the S mouth of Godavari River, enters the sea on the W side of Narasapur Point; the bar at its mouth has depths of 2.3m with depths of 3.7m to 7.3m within. The source of the wide, alluvial delta of Vasishta Godavari River and its several branches extend from the vicinity of Narasapur Point Narasapur Point to Kakinada Bay Between Narasapur Point and Vainateyam Godavari River, 15 miles ENE, the coast continues low and wooded. This stretch of coast may safely be approached to depths of 18m, the current, during January and February, sets with a maximum rate of 2 knots. Between the entrance to Vainateyam Godavari River and Sacramento Shoal lies the Rava Oil Fields. No Anchoring and Trawling is allowed in this area. The coast is lined with a number of Oil and Gas pipe lines which run between the Oil fields and the coast. Vrudha Gautami River is the S entrance of Godavari River and lies about 23 miles ENE of the entrance channel to the river. It lies between the SW end of a narrow sandpit, with depths from 0.3m to 1.2m high and shoal water extending SE from Sacramento light tower. There is a least depth of 2.7m over the bar which lies between 1 .25 to 2 miles S of the SW end of the sandpit. Hope Island, one of a chain of similar islands, lies 10 miles N of Masanutippa Temple and forms part of the delta of Godavari River; the island, which is low, swampy and covered with jungle is sometimes submerged during spring tides. Gautami Godavari River is the north mouth of Godavari River, which enters the sea on the east of Yanam, and is, situated 11 Nm south of Kakinada. The area can be accessed by road and is 45 Km from Kakinada. The coast is continuously low and wooded mostly with mangroves extending 3 nm into marshy lands. The stretch of the coast may safely be approached to depth of 5m. The inner portion of the river is well protected from sea by sand bank extending from main land. Nilarevu River is a distributary of Godavari river and situated N of the Varudha Gautami river and south of Yanam Village. The river mouth lies in position 16°43’N, 082°22’ E. The river is perennial in nature. Small Fishing crafts like fishing boats and trawlers navigates along the bank of the river keeping clear of the huge sand bars located right in the centre of the river. Kakinada Port is situated in the East Coast of India in position 16º 58'N, 82º 17' E. This was an all-weather lighterage port developed in a naturally sheltered bay called Godavari Sand Spit. The Kakinada port comprises of Kakinada anchorage port, Kakinada deep water port, Kakinada fishing harbour. The port of Kakinada comprises of an open anchorage about 3 miles NE of the entrance to Kakinada Canal and new along-side berths at the end of the dredged channel in which ocean-going vessel can anchor. Godavari Point to Penta-kota The coast for about 10 miles NE of Vakalapudi Light tower is low and marked with numerous villages and coconut trees. Low sand hills then appear and continue as far as Pentakota, 16 miles farther NE. Uppada, a village on the coast 5 miles NE of Vakalapudi Light tower, is a port of call for small local coasting craft. Pedda river situated N of the Uppada Village and South of Ramannapalem village. The mouth of th river lies in position 17°05.3’N, 082°21E. The area is fully flooded during the monsoons. During the winters and summer the water level falls to less than half a meter. Pentakota, a village standing on the banks of Tandava River on either side of the entrance of which are sandhills, 6 to 9m high, with coconut grove between them, this lies about 25 miles NE of Vakalapudi Light tower. The river is closed during the SW monsoon when a heavy sea rolls in. The Gangavaram Port Limited (GPL) is located in position (17º 37'.5 N, 83º 14.5' E), about 5 mile SW of Visakhapatnam is an all weather, deep water and multipurpose port. The coast line is by and large straight and mainly consists of steep cliffs and sandy shores. Visakhapatnam (17º 41' ’N, 83º 17'E), (also known locally as Vizag) is a coastal, port city, situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh, located on the eastern shore of India, nestled among the hills of the Eastern Ghats and facing the Bay of Bengal to the east. It is the administrative headquarters of Visakhapatnam district and is also home of the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. It is the largest city in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is primarily an industrial city apart from being a port city. The port lies at the mouth of Meghadri River and has many natural advantages. It is the most sheltered harbour; during cyclone vessels have remained in the landlocked harbour safely. The outer harbour of the Port can accommodate vessels upto 2,00,000 DWT and draught upto 18.1 meters. The inner harbour berths are PANAMAX compatible and can handle vessels upto 14.5 meters draught. The principal exports are iron and manganese ores, sugar, aluminum food grains and marine products. Chief imports are fertilizers, rock phosphate, sulfur, rude oil and petroleum products, coal, cement, zinc, concentrate and machinery. Visakhapatnam to Bheemunipatnam The coast from Visakhapatnam to Waltair Point (17º 44´ N, 83º 21´E), 3½ miles NE, is low and sandy; foul grounds lie throughout the coast extending up to ½ cable offshore. The area is reasonably vegetated with palm trees. Heavy breakers are encountered. There are several beach fronts which extend from the North Break Water of the fishing harbour to Bheemunipatnam. Rama Krishna Beach (RK Beach) is the portion which is 2 miles from the N breakwater of the fishing harbour to East point. Bheemunipatnam lies to the north of Visakhapatnam and is boarded by Rushikonda to the south and Bay of Bengal to the east. The Bheemunipatnam municipality was merged into greater Visakhapatnam Muncipal Corporation. Bheemunipatnam Port is no longer functional and the port office is abandoned. It lies on the SW side of Gostani River, the entrance to which almost dries but is used by local boats. Bheemunipatnam to Chintapalli (Santapille) Between Gostani River and Konada, a village 10 miles NE, the coast is sandy and broken about midway by some red rocks from about 6 to 12m high, which stand out well when seen from the sea. Between these cliffs and Konada the beach is fronted by rocks extending about ¼ mile offshore. Champavati River. The river mouth lies near Konada village, Pusapatirega mandal, Vijayanagar district. There are no berthing facilities available at the river mouth; boats are secured on the bank of the river using wooden stag horns. However the village nearby is well administrated with local government, but the transport services to the village are very few in number and less frequently available. Primary school and Primary Medical Centres are available in the village. Fishing is the main source of income for the people living in the village. Chintapalli (Santapille) to Kalingapatnam The coast between Chintapalli to Kalingapatnam, 32 miles NE, is sandy and broken beach backed by sand hills 5 to 12m high. Numerous villages lie along the coast. Nagaval or Langulya River, entering the sea at Pokalapeta 18 miles ENE of Santapille Light tower, is a narrow, shallow stream navigable only by local shallow draught boats; its entrance breaks a long line of sandy beach backed by sand hills, large sand banks to be found at the mouth of the river. Nagavali River. Nagavali River mouth is at Ganagallavani Peta near Srikakulam. Fishing is the main source of income for most of the people living in the area, No berthing facilities are present in the area, boats are secured on shore by pulling manually. Primary medical centre and school are available. The locality is well connected with other villages by roads. Kalingapatnam is an open roadstead port close to S of the mouth of Vamsadhara River (18º 21'N, 84º 08'E), which is encumbered by sand banks and is not navigable. The mouth of the river lies at Kalingapatnam village. The port is protected by Sandy Point 2 miles S of the river mouth, and by a spit extending from the point. The substantial coastal and foreign trade once enjoyed by the port has almost ceased since 1951.The town was formerly capital of the Kalinga Dynasty; signs of its former greatness are still visible in the ruins of large buildings and in ancient coins, often found after heavy rains. Kalingapatnam to Puri The coast between Kalingapatnam and the village of Bhavanapadu (18º 34' N, 84º 21'E), 19 miles NE is sandy and backed by numerous isolated hills; the land around the village is low and flat. Many small villages lie along this coast. A small rivulet, whose entrance is entirely closed at low water, enters the sea ½ mile S of Bhavanapadu. Bavanapadu is a village in the Srikakulam District of Andhra Pradesh. Being at the border of states Andhra Pradesh and Orissa, the local population is conversant with both Telegu and Oriya languages. The main occupation of people of this village is fishing and salt making. Pundi River (Bendi Creek) enters the sea, 8½ miles NE of Bavanapadu; a white beacon (18º 41'N, 84º 26'E), the top of which has an elevation of 21m, stands 4 cables SW of the entrance to the creek. There is a bar with 0.9m over it at the entrance to Pundi River in very favourable weather local craft up to 70 tonnes can enter the river and anchor off Nuvalrevu. Pundi River to Baruva Between the entrance to Pundi River and the village of Baruva, 14 miles NE, the coast is sandy and fairly well wooded and except near Baruva where the coast is flat and rises gradually in elevation. Baruva, is a small town of which only the custom house and a few huts can be seen from seaward as the locality is flat and the coast is fringed with palms, The town lies on the N side of Mahendratanaya, a small and shallow river, not suitable for navigation, entering the seas 6¾ miles NE of Ratti Beacon. Baruva to Gopalpur The coast between Baruva (18º 52'N, 84º 35'E) and Gopalpur, 29 miles NE, is sandy and broken. Near Kaviti, a small village, 10 miles NNE of Baruva the land rises gradually from the coast to an elevation of 91m forming a wooded tablel which is connected with the lower ranges of hills, farther inland. The higher ranges, which are farther inland, are obscured and is of little use for navigation. Gopalpur port is located at a Latitude 19º 18.22’N and Longitude 84º 57.88’ E along the coast of Bay of Bengal in the state of Odisha. It is midway on the 22km stretch of coastline, extending from the Gopalpur town in south and Rushikulya river mouth in the north. The port is 90 nautical miles south of Paradip port and 110 nautical miles north of Vishakhapatnam port.e port was Gopalpur to Puri Between Gopalpur and Puri 62 miles ENE, there are no off-lying dangers. Near the coast the sea bottom is sandy; between depths of 20m and 40m it is sand and mud; and in depths of over 42m it is generally mud. Between Gopalpur and Ganjam, 12 miles NE, the coast is sandy; several isolated and conspicuous hills are visible over the coastal sand hills. There are several fishing villages on the coast. Ganjam, is a little town which is seen from seaward, on the N side of which the land is low and with the ruins of an old fort standing on rising ground on its S side, The town lies on the N bank of Rushikulya River, which enters the sea 12 miles NE of Gopalpur. This river cannot be used for navigation. The small fishing harbour exists at the mouth of river. The port of Ganjam is little used because of heavy surf and shifting banks. Prayagi Light House is 15 km NE of Ganjam town. The light house derives its name from a small fishing village Prayagi. Chilka Lake, is a large shallow expanse of water, which is separated from the sea by a long, narrow sandy ridge. At its SW end, the lake is bordered by lofty hills N of Paluru Bluff, but to the N, it disappears in endless shallow, sedgy banks and islands just above the surface Nalaban Island a reed forest occupies the centre of the lake and there are several islands on the E side. Bhargavi, Daya, Nuna and many other rivers discharge into Chilka Lake. Chilka is the largest salt water lake. The lake extends upto Palaru junction in the SW direction. The lake disappears in the North in shallows. Nalaban Island exists in the centre of the lake. Chilka Mouth. The entrance of Chilka lake 19º 43' N, 85º 30' E is small and not easily identified. The entrance is reported to move its position considerably. The Chilka Mouth is accessible only by the country boat during monsoon season. Boat service to different island exists from Satapada and Balugoan. Satapada is a tourist spot which is about 30 km from Puri. From Satapada boats are available for transiting to Naupada. Road transport is available from Naupada to Paluru junction. Satapada has a jetty for tourist and ferry boat for Naupada. The ferry also visits the island in between Satapada to Naupada. There is no hospital near the Satapada. Nalaban Island now comes under the forest department and one forest watch tower exists on this island. Chikha Lake has reserve forest boundary pillar where the boats entry is restricted. Puri (19º 48' N, 85º 50' E), an open roadstead port, stands on a low sandy ridge on the coast; the sea front, on which are some large building, extends about 3 miles. The town of Puri, one of the most sacred places for Hindus. The annual festival of “Rath Yatra” held a during, June to July, attracts large crowds from all parts of India. The town gets a good breeze when the NE monsoon blows over it, fresh and cool from the sea, but is less so during the rains Puri to Devi River Between Puri and Devi River, 34 miles ENE, the coast is sandy, with bare sandhills 6m to 20m high; to the E of Konark (19º 53'N, 86º 07'E), a village about midway along this stretch of coast, groups of trees appear between the sandhills. Devi River (20º 00'N, 86º 25'E), One of the largest branches of Mahanadi River enters the sea after passing W and N of a long narrow sandspit at the end which is Devi Point. This river is frequented only by local craft. The country within the river entrance is dense swampy jungle and is uninhabited. There is a Harbour exists at the mouth known Naugarh jetty in the Devi River. Paradip Port (20º16'N, 86º41'E), a deep water all weather port, lying about 1 mile NE of Paradip lighthouse. The Port has an artificial lagoon type harbour protected by two rubble mound “Break Waters” and approached by the dredged channel. Paradip to Maipura Point Nurrea Banga Nassi (20º 25'N, 86º 48'E), a narrow low lying island, lies about 10 miles NE of Paradip Port; a tongue of land, consisting of small grassy sand hillocks about 2 m high, extends nearly 2½ miles NE from False Point and nearly joins the S end of Nurrea Banga Nassi. Mahanadi River has two entrances which lie between lion’s Rump (20º18' N, 86º44' E), and the S end of Nurrea Banga Nassi; they are separated by a narrow strip of low-lying sand cay which covers at high spring tides. This cay, with the N end of Lion’s Rump and S end of Nurrea Banga Nassi, is subject to inundation at normal high water when strong surf is running. False Bay lies between Nurrea Banga Nassi and Maipura (Maipura) Point (20º 43' N, 87º 03' E), about 20 miles NE at the entrance to Maipura River. Maipura Point to Balisahi Point Dhamra River. The most important of rivers in the state of Orissa, forms the N exit of the confluence of Brahmani, Baitarani and Matai Nadi. At its mouth the river is divided into two channels and is navigable. Dhamra, a village with a few houses, lies 3½ miles W of Chandnipal Point. There is a fishing harbour close by. Another beacon stands 7 cables farther W on the W entrance point of a small river. Matai Nadi, a river which joins Dhamra river from N about ½ mile above the village of Dhamra is about 1 cable wide and reported to be navigable at low water for vessels of 2.4 m draught. Bottom of the river is soft mud. Extensive fishing activity takes place in the river. Also, small cottages are sighted at the E of the entrance of the river. Baitarani River. Baitarani River, is a major river which flows through Orissa. It converges and forms a part of Dhamra River (at 20° 44.83’ N, 086°48.79’ E). The average depth of the river is 6 m with sand and muddy bottom. Brahmani River joins Dhamra River E of South Point, (20º 35'N, 86º 48'E); a tributary of the former leads to Cuttack, 55 miles WSW of the junction. Depth at the entrance is 8m and is navigated by passenger boats operating from Chandbali and Dhamra. Chandbali (20°46’N, 086°44’E), a small town, lies on the N bank of Baitarani River about 8 miles above its junction with Brahmani River. Dhamra Port The Dhamra Port is a port in Bhadrak district, Odisha, India, about seven kilometers from the old port of Dhamra. Port is situated in position 20°49.75'N, 86°58.57'E between Haldia and Paradeep, Dhamra Port is well sheltered between the mainland and Kanika Sands Island on the mouth of the river Dhamra. Principal activities of the port are export and import of Coal, Iron Ore, and Lime Stone. Balisahi to Burhabalang River Between Balisahi and Chandipur, 10 miles NE, the coast becomes firmer with lighter trees and sand hills; inland, a large double pagoda shows among trees on NW bearings. A conspicuous flat-topped tree stands 3 miles E of Pagoda. The coast between Chandipur (21º 26'N, 87º 02'E) and the entrance to Burhabalang River, 2 miles NE, appears sandy. A black flagstaff stands on the coast 6 cables NE of Chandipur. A pillar stands on the N bank of the river, 1½ miles N of the flagstaff. Chandipur, lies about 2½ miles SW of S entrance point of Burhabalang River. The Orissa Coast Canal runs along this stretch of coast. Burabhalang River, is a major river which enters sea at 20°28.138’ N, 087°03.362’ E near the Balaramgadi village. There extends a sandy beach from Chandipore to the entrance of the Burabhalang River. There exists no permanent jetty at the mouth of the river. The fishing boats are generally anchored at the middle stream of the river. There are a number of small jetties at about 1 mile E of the entrance where only one fishing boat can berth (20°28 N, 087°02’ E). Baleshwar (Balasore), a town with lies on the S bank of Burhabalang River, 16 miles within the entrance. Formerly a port of some commercial importance its trade now travels by rail and all sea-borne traffic has ceased. There is a small jetty W of the S entrance point of Burhabalang River. Burhabalang River to Rasulpur River Panchpara River (21º 31'N, 87º 07'E) and Saratha River enter the sea 4 miles NE of the mouth of Burhabalang river; some mottled grey and yellow sand hills stand near its mouth. A bar, with depths of 0.3 m obstructs its mouth, but within the entrance depths increase and local craft of up to 100 tones ascend to Mahadini, 9 miles inland. Haskura River enters the sea 5 miles farther NE. The coast between Panchapara River and Subarnarekha River, about 13 miles ENE, is marked by several sandhills. Pippli Sand, a drying sand bank, about 2½ miles long, lies about 2 miles SSE of the entrance to Subarnarekha River. Subarnarekha River enters the sea 14 miles E of Panchapara Nud River. Subernarekha River, is a major river flows W of Chaumukh village and enters sea at 21°33.225 N, 087°21.862’ E. At the time of low water, only fishing boats with a draught up to 2m can operate in the stream of the river. Two villages Chaumukh on S and Chandrabali on N exist alongside the mouth of the river. Along the E of the mouth of the river, a port is projected namely, Kirtania port. There also exist a small island namely, ‘Suberna Island’ on the mouth. Approaches to Sandheads When approaching the Sandheads off Hugli River, soundings are a valuable guide. A vessel is advised to keep in depths of not less than 30m until certain of her position. If approaching from the E, Swatch of No Ground can be of assistance, and the 30m contour is a useful safeguard in approaching the Sandheads. On arrival at Sandheads, vessels are advised to anchor SE of Eastern Channel light vessel in depths of between 25m leaving W side clear, in position 21º04'N, 88º12.6'E In the event of depression and cyclones one can experience very heavy ground swell. When it is not possible to stay at anchor, then it is advisable for vessels to weigh anchor and cruise in deeper waters. Hugli River in the NW part of the Bay of Bengal, is the W branch of the Ganges and the means of access for ocean-going vessels calling at the port of Kolkata is an approximately 160 miles long distributary of the Ganga River in West Bengal, India. It splits from the Ganga as a canal in Murshidabad District at the Farakka Barrage. Sundarbans This coast is formed by the combined deltas of the Ganges or Ganga and Brahmaputra Rivers. The seaward side area is covered by mangrove forests called Sundarbans, from which the coast gains its name. Sundarbans extend E for about 165 miles from Hugli River. The W and E parts are high as compared with the low and swampy central part towards which the ground slopes gradually. The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world. It lies at the mouth of the Ganges and is spread across areas of West Bengal of India and Bangladesh, forming the seaward fringe of the delta. Bangladesh and Indian portion of the jungle are listed in the UNESCO world heritage list. The Sundarbans is intersected by a complex network of tidal waterways, mudflats and small islands of salt-tolerant mangrove forests, and presents an excellent example of ongoing ecological processes. The Sundarbans is a complex ecosystem comprising one of the three largest single tracts of mangrove forests of the world. Shared between two neighbouring countries, India and Bangladesh. To the south the forest meets the Bay of Bengal; to the east it is bordered by the Baleswar River and to the north there is a sharp interface with intensively cultivated land. The Sundarbans is the world’s largest estuarine forest. The Sundarbans is inhospitable, dangerous and monotonous. Dense mangrove forests occupy 56 islands and the balance is under saline water which flows through numerous tidal channels and creeks. It is difficult to approach and must be one of the most attractive and alluring places remaining on earth. Matla River (21º30'.00N, 88º 40'.00E) lies about 34 miles E of Sagar Island Lighthouse, with its mouth between Bulchery island (21º 34'.00N, 88º 31'.00E) and Dalhousie Island. The river provides a navigable channel for small vessels to Port Canning (22º 18'.47N, 88º39'.09E) 50 miles up streams. The river is entered through Western and Eastern Channels, separated by West Spit, drying in patches. Shoals at the entrance are subject to change and since pilotage is not available, caution is necessary while navigating these two channels and Matla River. Matla River to Pussur River This offshore route leads from a position SE of the Matla River, 38 miles NE to a position S of the Mongla Fairway Light Buoy (21º26'.86 N, 89º33'.96 E). Bhangaduni River is entered between Dalhousie Island and Bhangaduni Island. On the E lie Bhangaduni Island and Bhangaduni Sand. Gosaba (Guasaba) River, E of Bhangaduni Island, is encumbered by shoals in its entrance. Haribhanga River (21º30 N, 89º10' E), the mouth of which lies 18 miles ENE of Gosaba River, Raimangal River also flows south about 4 miles E, All the three rivers enter the sea through a common estuary which extends 6 miles S. It has a least depth of 6.4 m in its approach but local knowledge is necessary for its navigation. International Boundary Line. Haribhanga River separates India from Bangladesh. Pussur River is entered between West Point. 4½ miles E of Putney Island, and Jefford Point, 7½ miles farther E; a bar lies E of the Zulfiquar Channel at the approach to the river which extends to 10 miles S from the entrance. The river is navigable for 73 miles above its mouth providing access to the small river ports of Mongla and Khulna. The channel leads from N of the bar to a deep water channel between shoal banks off West Point and Jefford Point and then N through an estuary formed by the junction of Sibsa River with Pussur River at Akram point. Vessels passing through the Zulfiquar Channel can ascend the river as far as Khulna 73 miles above the entrance. The Sibsa River S of Akram Point (21º59'.75N, 89º31'.85E), forms a combined estuary with the Pussur river. In clear weather Jefford Point may be sighted on entering Zulfiquar Channel, which leads from N of the bar to the estuary. The estuary coast is covered with dense tropical vegetation except Jefford Point where it is sandy and grass covered. The river banks from Mongla Port to Akram point are covered with dense tropical forest. The river above Akram Point remains fairly broad and presents a remains fairly broad and presents a relatively straight forward channel. Mongla Port (22º 29'.40 N, 89º 35'.40 E) is situated at the East Bank of Pussur River near the confluence of Pussur River and Mongla Nullah at a distance of 71 Nautical Miles from the Fairway Buoy situated (21º 26'.9N, 89º 34'.4E) in the Bay of Bengal. The geographical position of the port jetties are in position 22º 29'.32 N, 89º 35'.57 E. Mongla port is second principal port of Bangladesh and handles containers frozen shrimps, coal, cement, grain, salt, nuts and machinery. Chalna lies on the W side of Pussur River and 9 miles above Mongla Anchorage. The port was formerly the anchorage in Chalna Reach about one mile below the town , with a least depth of 3.8 m , but it was found unsuitable when vessels moored there broke adrift from their moorings, during high freshets, and caused strong eddies. The port now consists of the sheltered anchorage at Mongala Nala. Khulna (22º 49'.00 N, 89º 34'.35E) the third-largest city of Bangladesh, is the administrative seat of Khulna District. It is a regional industrial center and hosts many national companies. It is also one of the two principal naval command centers of the Bangladesh Navy. Bangladesh Naval base BNS Titumir is located in the city. It is regarded as the gateway to the Sundarbans, and is also situated north of the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Khulna is also the major centre of Bangladesh’s small ship building production. Khulna city has good road, rail and inland waterways transportation Haringhata River (21º 58'N, 89º 54'E) is one of the principal outlets of the River Ganga. Harighata river is navigable by sea-going ships as far as Morrellganj, about 35 miles from the entrance and throughout its entire course by the largest local boats. The river is Navigable with local knowledge, as the river is free from bores and from mid-channel dangers. Baleswar River is a tributary of Ganga which flows into the sea 9 miles E of Tiger point. During the SW monsoon, a heavy seas runs as the entrance and the river should not be entered without local knowledge. Rabnabad Channel (21º 50'N, 90º 16'E) or Patua River entrance lies about 8 miles ENE of Landfall Point. The entrance is encumbered with constantly shifting banks. The narrow channel within the entrance has a least charted depth of 3.7 m. This river joins with River Ganga through Kajal and Tetulia Rivers. A branch of this river leads N to Patuakhali (22º 21' N, 90º 20' E) and thence to Barisal 20 miles farther N. From Barisal there are waterway connections with Morrelganj and Khulna, both previously described and also to Narayanganj about 7 miles SE of Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Payra Port (21º 55'.55N, 90º 17'.42E) A deepwater port is under construction in the Rabnabad Channel. A buoyed channel has been established leading NNE for about 35 miles from Payra fairway Light buoy (21º 21'.90N, 90º 06'.00E) Rabnabad Channel to Sandwip Between Rabnabad Island and Sandwip, about 70 miles ENE, is a large area that has not been well surveyed. Shallow flats extend several miles seaward between the mouth of the channel entrance to Shahbazpur River 45 miles ENE; these flats extends as much as 28 miles SW of Rabnabad Island and about 30 miles SSW of Hatia Island (22º 15'N, 91º 05'E). The area between the S point of the E most of the Rabnabad Islands and a position about 18 miles E has not been surveyed. Another area N of a line extending about 50 miles ENE from the S point of the E most of Rabnabad Islands to a position about 6 miles E of the SE point of South Hatia Island has also not been surveyed. Tatulia River, which has not been surveyed, flows between the mainland and the Dakhin Shahbazpur Island on the E. The river is divided into two branches, Kajal River which joins the Rabnabad Channel and the other Bura Gauranga River which enters the sea. Many islands lie in between these two rivers. Shahbazpur River is a poorly surveyed river, which flows between Dakhin Shabazpur Island on the W and North Hatia Island on the E. The mouth of the Shahbazpur River is full of several dry sand patches and small islands. It extends up to 22 miles further S from southern most point of Dakhin Shahbazpur island. Meghna River discharges the main volume of waters of Ganga and Brahmaputra Rivers through its four principal mouths, Tetulia River, Shabazpur River, Hatia Channel and Sandwip Channel E of Sandwip Island(22º28' N, 91º29' E). Brahmaputra joins Ganga at Sibalay and the combined waters enter Meghna River at Chandpur. Hatia Channel (22º 23'.91 N, 91º 09'.02 E) leads between South Hatia Island and Sandwip and should not be attempted without local knowledge. The approach channel leads along the W coast of Sandwip Island. The central and W side of the channel is foul. Depths in the channel and over adjoining shoals are liable to changes frequently. Sandwip is the largest of numerous islands at the entrance to Meghna River. The land is fertile and consists of sugarcane fields and coconut trees. Sandwip Channel (22º 23'.00 N, 91º 35'.00 E), lies between Sandwip and the mainland E but its N approach is closed by sandbanks. The E shore of the channel abreast of Sandwip is fronted by a white sandy beach. Rabnabad Islands. Anchorage can be obtained in depth of 6 m, soft mud S of Sonar Char (21º 50'.00 N, 93º 30'.00 E). Local knowledge is essential for anchorage. Approaches to Karnaphuli River The entrance to Karnaphuli River lies between Patenga Point (22º 13'.5N, 91º 48'.2E), and Norman’s Point (22º 11'.8N, 91º 48'.9E) about 2 miles SE. It is the most important river in Chattogram District and leads to Chattogram about 10 miles within the entrance. Patenga Point is low and marked by a few trees. A drying mud flat extends about ½ mile SW from this point. Gupta Char and Lukia Char are largest of the mud islands (chars) lying on the E bank of the river, which is low and swampy but cultivated, between Gupta Crossing and Chattogram, about 4 miles N. Above Sadarghat (22º 19'.4 N, 91º 49'.8 E), the channel narrows and shoals. A bye-channel used by boats at high tide separates Gupta and Lukia Chars. Chattogram Port. The port of Chattogram (22º 18'.60N, 91º 48'.30E) is the principal port of Bangladesh. Chattogram handles 90% of Bangladesh's export-import trade. It is situated on the NW bank of the river Karnaphuli at a distance of 9 miles from the shore line of the Bay of Bengal. River Karnaphuli rising in the Lushai Hills joins into Bay of Bengal after taking a winding course of about 120 nautical miles through the district of Chattogram Hill Tracts and Chattogram. The width of the navigational channel varies from place to place. A minimum of 250m channel width is maintained. The major exports of the port of Chattogram are jute and jute products, hides and skins, tea, naphtha, molasses, frozen fish, shrimps, garments and fertiliser. The main imports are food grain, cement, petroleum, sugar, salt, fertiliser, general cargo, iron materials and chemicals. Sangu River discharges its water into the Bay of Bengal 4½ miles SSE of Norman’s Point light. The river is used by large boats only. A Beacon (black and white), 15m high stands about 1 mile NW of the N entrance point. A drying mud flat which gets covered during SW monsoon fronts the coast between Norman’s Point and Sangu River. The coast of Sangu River, is low and wooded upto 2 miles offshore fronting this stretch of coast. Kutubdia Island, the NW and outer most of these islands is low, flat and covered with trees; its coast is protected by embankments against flooding. Kutubdia Channel (21º 47'.70 N, 91º 53'.40E), a narrow passage 1 to 2 miles wide with depths of 4.3 to 11m leads between Kutubdia Island and the numerous low islands fronting the main lands on the E side. The entrance lies between the sands extending S from Kutubdia Island and drying patches extending SSW from Matarbari Island (21º 43' N, 91º 53'E). Pekua River joins the Kutubdia channel 6 miles SSE of light tower. Kutubdia Island to Cox’s Bazar Matabari Island. (21º 43'N, 91º 53'E) and Maiskhali Island, close S of it and are separated from the mainland SE by Maiskhali channel, they are the outer most of numerous islands between Kutubdia island and Cox’s Bazar, 18 miles SSE. Maiskhali Island. is mainly low lying and fringed by mangroves, but a range of low hills nearly 90m high runs through the centre and along the E coast. Garamchari Hills, 86m high and standing near the middle of the E part of Maiskhali Island is not very distinctive from the somewhat uniform range of hills on the vicinity. Sandhills from 3 to 8m high fringe the S coast of Maiskhali Island. Maiskhali Bluff, 73m high and conspicuous, stands 2 miles NNE of the S point of the island. Sonadia Island (21º 30' N, 91º 52'E), about 2 miles SSW of Maiskhali Island., is marked by low white sandhills. A bank which dries in patches extends about 1½ miles seawards on its SW side; with the flood stream the sea breaks heavily on this bank. A sand mud flat, drying in places almost fills the area between Sonadia Island and the S coast of Maiskhali Island. The village of sonadia stands in the centre of island amongst some palm trees. Lattadia Islet, small and low, on the marshy flat which fronts the W side of Maiskhali Island dries 1.5m. Rupadia Sands (21º 27' N, 91º 57'E), is a sandbar with shallow depths which dries up during low water. It extends upto 2½ miles S of the SE end of Sonadia island and lies on the W side of the entrance of Maiskhali Channel. Hamidardia Island (21º 30'N, 91º 57'E), is a sandy island separated from SW point of Maiskhali Island by a mangrove swamp which covers at high water. Cox’s Bluff to Elephant Point The coast between Cox’s Bluff and Elephant Point, about 15½ miles SSE is backed by low hills and is densely wooded. Reju Shoal, 4 miles SW of South Cliff, is composed of rock and hard sand with a least depth of 4.1m over it. The shoal was reported to lie about ½ mile NW of its charted position. All vessels operating in the vicinity are to exercise caution. Reju Creek flows into the sea about 2.8 miles SSE of South Cliff. This part of the coast is lined with sand and has deciduous trees. Baragi Hill a conspicuous hill of 113m lies close to elephant point. Elephant Point summit 125m high is prominent and has a prominent ledge of rocks extending about 3 cables from Elephant Point. Elephant Point to Naaf River Entrance Between Elephant Point (21º 10'N, 92º 03'E) and Shahpuri Point, 33 miles SSE, the coast is formed by the W side of Naff Peninsula which separates Naff River from the sea. Taungyo Taung, 276m high, stands 11 miles SE of Elephant Point, There is another conspicuous hill rising to a peak 235m high which lies 9½ miles SSE of Taungyo Taung, the hills between attain an elevation of 265m. Wet Kyein Daung, 459m high, 11½ miles ENE of Taungyo Taung, stands at the N end of Mayu Range which backs the coast, gradually converging towards it and extending about 55 miles SSE and terminate N of Foul Point. Bharakbur, a narrow creek (Magyi Cr.) drying in places and bordered by mangroves, cuts through Naff Peninsula 4½ miles NW of Shahpuri Point forming Shahpuridwip. It is a low, flat island covered with jungle. Approaches to Naf River Saint Martin’s Reef (20º 37'.16N, 92º 12'.93E), 10 miles WSW of Shahpuri Point, is a ridge of sunken rock awash ¾ mile within its S end. The sea breaks in heavy weather with southerly swell on this reef. Saint Martin’s Islands lie 5¼ miles SSW of Shahpuri Point and extends upto 3 miles S; they consist of an island with two islets off the S end connected by drying ledges of sand and coral. A conspicuous tree stands close within the N point of the island; several casuarina trees stand on other parts and near the S end of the island. Naf River marks the boundary of the coastal region between Bangladesh and Myanmar; it is entered SE of Shahpuri Point (20º 43'.13N, 92º 21'.53E) and Cypress point. Both Shahpuri Point and Cypress point are low lying and sandy. Mangrove swamp lies 1½ mile E of Shahpuri Point and is low and sandy. The Naf River flows down from up north Gundum Bazar. The depths in the river are from 6 to 12 m from Shapuri point up to S of Totadia Island. The river is only navigable for small vessels up to 20 miles. Maungdaw (20º 49'N, 92º 22'E), the principal town on Naf River, lies on Tat Chaung. From the end of November to the end of April there is regular sea communication with Akyab and Chittagong; launches communicate with Tumbru, at the head of Naf River, during the SW monsoon. A light railway now changed to main road, 10 miles ENE; there is communication by launch with Rathedaung and Sittwe. Tat Chaung. Tat Chaung provides entrance to Maungdaw. Naf River has been surveyed for about 20 miles above Tat Chaung. From a position 4 miles N of the Chaung to the N limit of survey, there are several detached sand or narrow shallow channels between them navigable only by vessels of light draught. Two channels follow the W and E shores of this shoal stretch with least depths of 3.7 m and 2.7 m respectively. About 7 miles within the mouth is safe for navigation and has depths from 6 to 12 m. Naf River Entrance to Mayu River Sitaparokia (20º 33'.14N, 92º 31'.74E), a black hill 67 m high with the ruins of a temple on its summit, lies close within a point 14 miles SE of Shahpuri Point. A prominent rock, 37m high and shaped like a chair lies ½ mile NW of Sitaparokia. A 3.6m rocky patch lies 2 miles WNW of Sitaparokia. Oyster Island situated 12 miles WSW of Burne Rocks. Oyster Island (20º 11'.84N, 92º 32'.19E) is low, sandy and bare, except for some coconut palms; a low boulder sea-wall protects its E and W coast from erosion. The Island lies on a ledge of rocks with shoal depths extending NNW and SE. The stranded wreck of MV Joo Wah, which sank in August, 1982, lies in shoal water about 2 miles SSE of Oyster Island. The red sector covers Oyster reef which lies 9 miles further SE. Approaches to Mayu River Foul Point (20º 15'.73N, 92º 44'.74E) is the S extremity of the peninsula which separates Mayu River from the sea. A shallow spit fronts the coast from about 8 miles NNW of Foul Point to 7½ miles SSW of the point where it terminates in North Spit. Two detached islets, Kyauk Kyi Kyun and Nant Thar Kyun lie on the inner part of this bank, one W and one S of Foul Point; between the later islet and the point are numerous rocks and drying patches and the E edge of this foul ground is fairly steep. There is narrow channel with at least depth 1.7 m between the bank and Foul Pint. Martini Sands (20º 13'.20N, 92º 44'.51E), extending about 3 miles S from Burne Rocks, are constantly changing. The sand shift and inshore of the breakers are awash at high water. Mayu Point lies 4 miles SSE of Foul Point. The coast SE is fronted by a shallow bank terminating 3½ miles SSW of Mayu Point, in South Spit. Mayu Spit (20º 10'.96N, 92º 45'.46E), extending two miles along the NW edge of the shallow bank, is awash at low water. Mayu River is entered between Foul Point and Mayu Point SSE; Kywede (Kywide) River joins Mayu River from E about 3 miles N of Mayu Point and has been surveyed for distance of about 4 miles. A navigable channel leads across the bar between North spit and South spit and into Mayu River mouth. The port of Sittwe (Akyab) (20º 08'.40N, 92º 54'.33E) is a lighterage port lies at mouth of Kaladhan River. The port was developed in support of important rice production area which surrounds it. Chief exports are rice rice products and salt; the chief imports are oil, cloth, gunny bags, dried fish and cotton. Sittwe now handles both domestic and international trade. Kaladan River is entered between Ya Thay Point and Hodge Point, 2.7 miles SSE. The town of Sittwe lies on the W bank of the river N of Ya Thay Point. Kaladan River has been surveyed further to Kalabon River which enters the E bank 17 miles NNE of Hodge Point (20º 04'.53N 92º 55'.10E). The W branch of Kaladan River lies between Ngapi Kyun and Paton Peninsula. The inner bar, across the entrance to the W branch of Kaladan River, lies between the coast of the mainland about 1 mile N of Ya Thay Point and the SW end of the bank surrounding Flat Island; this bar leads to the main wharf at Akyab and to a channel formed by the W branch of the river. The bar has a least depth of 4m. The W branch continues generally NNE passing W then NW of Ngapi Kyun (a low lying island covered with mangroves). Mayu Kyun (a low lying island covered with mangrove). A narrow, shallow channel marked by buoys, leads between Ngapi Kyun (flat Island) and Mayu Island, a low island close N and covered in brushwood. This channel can be used by boats, shallow draughted barges and country boats. The E branch of Kaladan River is entered between the SW end of the of the bank surrounding Ngapi Kyun (Flat Island) Spit (20º 10'.49N, 92º 56'.65E) and a bar lying across the NW entrance of Sintamaw River (Research strait) (20º 06'.40N, 92º 57'.00E). Kywegu River flows into the E branch of Kaladan River 5 miles NE of Hodge Point (20º 04'.5N, 92º 55'.2E); it is used by boats carrying cargo between Sittwe and Rakhine. Walkan Island lies close N of the S entrance point of Kywegu River; Kyauk Zauk Hto (Tumble Down Dick Rock), 60m high and prominent, stands on the island. Another island, 55m high, lies in the middle of the river ½ mile E of Walkan Island. Sintamaw River (Research Strait) (20º 06'.40N, 92º 57'.00E) separates Myengun Kyun from Peinnechaung Kyun (Middle Boronga Island), a high, thickly wooded island on the E side. The strait is fairly deep at its S end but is blocked by shoals at its N end where it joins Kaladan River. Vessels can have good anchorage at 4.5 cables E side of Soemekyi village and Sankarmaw village. Fresh water would It affords sheltered passage for boats and small craft which is invaluable during the SW monsoon; local knowledge is necessary to navigate. Painaisa Island (19º 45'N, 93º 12'E), is an island which is 58m high and lies 10 miles SE of Boronga Point and Barn Island , lies 3 cables SE, it is 30 m high and is a prominent reddish coloured. Ingrinchaing Island, E of Peinnechaung Kyun and running parallel with it, is inconspicuous from seaward. Calder Island, 92m high lies about 6 cables SE of south point of Ingrinchaing Kyun. A drying shoal 2.4m lies about 3.8 miles SSE of Calder Island. Detached rocks and shoals extend about 3.6 miles SE from the end of Calder Island. Hunter Bay is very shallow and is entered between the S point of Ingrinchaing Kyun and Kyunthaya (Elizabeth Island), an island 10 miles ESE of Calder Island. The highest point on the island is 262 m high at its NW part and bold, but has no well defined summit; the N part of the island is the highest and the most prominent. The entrance to the bay is occupied by a chain of islets and rocks extending 5 miles ESE from Ingrinchaing kyun. The bay is shallow at the entrance and central part. Channels navigable by small craft lead along each side of the bay, the W channel provides access to Sittwe and E channel provides access to Myebon River. 3 Combermere Bay is entered between Kyunthaya Island (19º 42'.70N, 93º 27'.80E), and Nakhaungbauk Kyun (19º 33'.4N, 93º 30'E), about 7 miles S of the southern extremes of Kyun Thaya Island. A Foul grounds extends 2 miles E and 1.5 miles W of this Island. The navigation of this bay, for which the chart is the only guide, is intricate and dangerous and it is used only by local vessels. Asingyi Island lies 4 miles SE of Naungdawlay Kyun and Asingyi village lies W of the Island. James Island lies one Mile SE of Nakhaungbauk Island. Haycock Island lies 5 miles E of Nakhaungbauk Island. Kan Island a 33 m high island lies 1.2miles NE of Hay cock Island. A number of Rocks awash and Islands lie E, SE & NE of Hay cock and Asingyi Islands. Nasapo Kyun (19º 39'.08N, 93º 32'.33E), 2 miles SE of Kyunthaya, is 111m high and wedge shaped; it forms a prominent mark. Naungdaw Kyun lies 1 mile E of Naungdawlay Kyun; Seppinas Peak, a prominent conical summit is about 256m high standing near the NW side of the island, it slopes gradually SE to the coast. Kyauk Phyu Harbour (19º 26'.5N, 93º 234'E) is entered S of Combermere Bay from which it is separated by Dagayo kyun and others in the vicinity. It is small anchorage port of local importance but developing into a major national port. The town of Kyauk Phyu is a local administrative centre and lies on the S end of harbour. Kyauk Phyu stands on the S shore of the harbour about 5½ miles within the entrance; the name Kyauk Phyu means “White Shore” and probably derives from the white pebble beach which fronts the town. The harbour is entered between Myethpyu Kyun (19º 32'.3N, 93º 29'.4E) and Seik Kyun 6¾ miles SSW. It affords well sheltered anchorage and is exposed only WNW. At its E end Kyauk Phyu Harbour leads into Mingaung Chaung which communicates through Mingaung Mun aung and Taungup. Gadechy Harbour (19º 22'.50N, 93º41'.20E), is part of a deep sea port development (2017), including the Maday Island Oil Terminal about miles SE of Kyauk Phyu. For entering harbour route leads from a position N of Dalhousie Point to SE along the maintained channel marked by light buoys passing: NNE of Pyin Phyu Maw (19º 25'.14N, 93º 34'.05E) and SW of Paung Net Kyee Kyun (19º 26'.03N, 93º 36'.45E) then to: Mun Aung Strait, which lies between Ramree Kyun and Mun Aung Kyun is entered between Rocky Point and Searle Point (18º 55'N, 93º 37'E). Between Sandy Point and the S Point of Mun Aung Island the E coast of the island is low and thickly wooded with palm trees for 8 miles S of Sandy Point, off this position it becomes high. Ohnchaung (Mun Aung Chaung), lies 2 miles S of Sandy Point leads to the town of Mun Aung; a pagoda about ½ mile NW of the entrance, is white-washed every autumn and makes a good mark. Mun Aung Island is well- wooded, with a good deal of undulating country; the greater part is cultivated. The SW coast is high, in contrast with the N and E coast already described with Mun Aung Strait. Heywood Channel (18º 34'.70N, 93º 50'.00E) leads between Ye Island and Taung Kyun on the W and the foul ground between Sail Rock and False Rock on the E. The channel may be entered in fair weather seasons with ship drawing draught of 7 m and is recommended to enter from the NE entrance of the channel. Childers Channel (18º 33'N, 93º 54'E) between West Shoal, Sail Rock and False Rock NW and Ohntapin Island and East Reef SE. It is about 4 miles wide and with a least depth of 14.6m. It is a good channel to use, particularly when the sea is breaking on the West Shoal. Ohntapin Kyun and Channel. Ohntapin (Unguan) Island, 11 miles SE of Taung Island, is 40m high and has a dense clump of trees on its summit; the island is surrounded by foul ground. The island is an uninhabited rocky hill with few patches of sand on NE edge of the coast that provides landing. Ohntapin Kyun Light is exhibited from a squat, black and white chequered tower near the centre of the island. This channel is the most straight forward from a position SSW of Ohntapin Kyun the track leads NE through the channel between Ohntapin Kyun and Nerbudda Shoal. Mariners should note an isolated rocky shoal 4 miles SW of Ohntapin Kyun. Ramree Harbour (18º 50'.8 N, 93º 59'E), is the estuary of Kaleindaung River, lies between the S end of Ramree island and the mainland E of it and affords sheltered anchorage to all types of vessels in depths of 18m. There are numerous islands, Rocks and dangers in the entrance and in the S approach to it. Ramree Harbour is entered between the S point of Ramree Island (18º 51'N, 93º 56'E) and the coast of the mainland, 5½ miles E, but the entrance is obstructed by a group of islands which divides it into two parts. Harbour affords sheltered anchorage to all types of vessels. Magyi Island (Magyigyun), 80m high, whale-backed and surrounded by foul ground, is the S-most of the islands in the entrance. Nyaungbin Island (Nyaungbinchaung) lies on the edge of foul ground ¾ mile SW of Magyi Island. Baung Island (Tangagyochaung) lies in the middle of foul ground extending ½ miles W from Magyi Island. Kyunta Island (Adam’s Island), an island 47m high, lies about 1 mile N of Magyi Island. Sagu Island, 2 miles NNW of Magyi Island, is 84 m high near its SW side. Tanchaung (Ramree River) enters the W side of the harbour 5 miles NNW of Oyster Reef; an island lies 2¾ miles ENE of the entrance. Nepal Rock, lies in mid-channel, 2 miles E of the entrance to Tanchaung; a swirl is often visible over the rock. Mingaung Chaung, with a narrow entrance about 2 miles N of Nepal Rock, connects the head of Ramree Harbour with the inner part of Kyauk Phyu Harbour and may be used by vessels not exceeding 2.4m draught. The E side of Ramree Harbour has a number of Chaungs which enter into the channel. Sabyin Chaung enters the channel 2.5 miles E of Cutter’s Rock. Tanlwe Chaung enters the channel 3.2 miles E of number three White Mark. Myaungshe Chaung discharges its water into the channel 3 miles NE of Flat Reef, Myaunggyi Chaung lies close S of it. Kyauksalaung Chaung enters off Dragon shoal, 3 miles S of Myaunggyi Chaung. Both side of the channel is well covered with Mangroves. Andrew Bay lies between Money point (18º 18'.56N, 94º 19'.52E), and an unnamed headland 3¼ miles NNE. Its shore comprises a series of smaller bays, some of which are encumbered by shoals and reefs. Sandoway River enters the sea between a drying sandspit extending SW from Singaung Island and Zalat Taung, is an Island 52m high, about 5 cables S of Singaung island. Rocks and foul ground extend ¾ miles SSW from the W end of the island. A detached rock 1m high lies ½ mile SW of Zalattaung. Singyat Island is separated from Zalat Taung, close NW by a narrow rock-filled channel. When the wind is W or N, heavy surf breaks along the coast and boat landing near the river mouth is hazardous. Sandoway Bay, lies close E of Lontha light, has a small stone jetty which is connected by road with Sandoway town, 6 miles N. The jetty, locally called Thandwe jetty is used by small fishing boats and tourist boats. A ruined jetty also exist adjacent to Thandwe jetty is partially visible during low waters. Mayo Bay (18°18’ N, 94°22’ E) lies near the SE corner of Andrew Bay and provide sheltered anchorage during the South West Monsoon. A large promontory, with Money Point as its NW extremity, extends about 5 miles W from the general line of the coast close S of Andrew Bay. A Pagoda, conspicuous from seaward, when the sun shines on it, stands on the SW part of this promontory. Mayo Bay, near the SE corner of Andrew Bay, affords shelter during the SW monsoon. The coast of Mayo Bay is covered by mangroves. Between Bluff Cape and Gwa Bay, about 25 miles SE, several peaks, easily identifiable from seaward, lie within the coast; the coast is sandy and has numerous rocks and shoal patches. Bowendowng 532m high lies 10 miles SSE of Bluff Cape. High Peak, 585m high, lies 2.2 miles further S of it and is very prominent. Satthwa (Hswathwa) River (17º 47'N, 94º 29'E) is narrow and obstructed by a shallow bar; it can only be approached through a narrow inshore channel leading from S between reefs and shoals. Satthwa (Hswathwa) (17º 46'.70N, 94º 29'E), lies close within the mouth on the S bank and is the only village of importance on this stretch of coast. Satthwa Cone (Hswathwa) a 45m high point on the northern part of a rock which lies about 1 mile SW of Satthwa village. Abhay Island (Be-in), 18m high, stands on foul ground, on which are many drying rocks, which extend SW of the entrance to Satthwa Chaung; between this entrance and Gwa Bay, 10 miles SSE are dangers up to 1¼ miles offshore. Satthwa Chaung River is narrow and its mouth obstructed by a shallow bar. It can only be approached through a narrow channel for which local knowledge is required Bawmi River (Bomie River), which is navigable by boats, flows into the head of Bawmi Bay (17º 20'N, 94º 34'E), entered 15 miles S of Gwa Bay. Bawmi, a village, lies on the E side of the entrance of the river. Danson Bay, about 6 miles SSW of Pontamau Island, is the most sheltered anchorage between Cheduba and Cape Negrais. Gwa Bay(17º 36'.88N, 94º 32'.82E) is entered between a point (17º 37'N, 94º 34'E) fronted by a reef extending ½ mile SSW from it and another point, at the end of a promontory, 2 miles S. The bay affords anchorage in depths of above 10m but is open to the W winds. Gwa River flows into the S end of Gwa bay; the mouth of the river is fronted by a bar with a least depth of 2m and by a patch of rocks drying 2.4m. Gwa, a village in which there is a hospital, stands among trees on Coconut Point, this is the E entrance point of Gwa River. There is occasional communication by sea, during the NE monsoon, with Satthwa, Kyeintali and Sandoway. Gwa Island, 44m high, lies 3.1 miles WSW of the Coconut point and forms an excellent landmark. The islet is surrounded by foul ground. The channel between it and the mainland is navigable only by boats. A detached rock, drying 1.5m, lies 1½ miles NNE of Gwa Island. The foul ground which extends 2.2 miles S of Gwa Island is full of rocks which dry up to 0.6m to 2.1m. Chaungtha Island (High Island), lies 6.8 miles S of Black Point, which lies close off the mouth of Chaungtha River (Kyaungtha River) with Thebyu Island (Sandy Island) 1 mile NNW. Rock and foul ground extend 2¼ miles NW from Thebyu Island. Chaungtha (Kyaung Tha) River is navigable by boats and is the nearest point on this coast to the town of Pathein. Boats entering the river must pass N of Chaungtha Island and care should be exercised when landing as there are several reefs off the entrance and, except in good weather, most of the time a heavy swell breaks on the bar. Bugwe Island, 34m high lies about 7 miles ESE of South Island. A rocky patch which dries up to 2.1m lies 1.8 miles WSW of the Island. Sandy Point, a rocky edge lies about 3 miles SSW of Bugwe Island. Talagu, 156m high lies 2 miles SE of Bugwe Island. Ma - Gyi Chaung enters the sea from E 2½ miles S of Bugwe Island. Myingyi Island lies 1.7 miles NW of Migyaunggaung with North Reef, West Reef and South Reef within about 1 mile from it. A depth of 8 m was reported in 1975 about 2 miles WNW of West Reef. A shoal with least depth of 7.3m lies about 8 cables W of South Reef. Another rocky shoal with least depth of 5.5m lies about 9 cables SSE of it and a shoal with a least depth of 8.7m lies 19 cables SSE of this South Reef. Migyaunggaung Island lies 1 mile E of South Reef. Goyangyi Island (Koronge Island) (16º 32'.01 N, 94º 14'.66E), wedge-shaped and rugged; its E side is precipitous. North Rock, a large detached rock, lies close off its N end. West Rock lies at the S end of the Island. Megaunggan Kyun, 17m high, lies about 6 miles S of Goyangyi Island. A rock 2m high lies close N of this Island. Two rocks which dry upto 1.5m and 1.2m lie 1.2 miles NE and 9 cables SE of this island respectively. The rocky patch extends about 8 cables S of this island. A shoal patch with least depth of 5m lies 13 cables WSW of this island which extends 1.3 miles further S. Hnget Pyau River enters the sea about 1½ miles SE of Megaunggan Island. Ongyun Kyun 43m high lies about 1½ miles S of Megaunggan Island. The E side of this island is shallow which extend about 3 cables E. A rock which dries up to 0.6m lies 9 cables E of this island, close shore to mainland. Leik Island lies about 6 cables WSW of Ongyun from its southern most part. A shoal with least depth of 3.2m lies about 6 cables W of this island. A rock 3m high lies about 6 cables SW of this island. The stranded wreck of MV United Vanguard lie close N of Leik Island. Ayeyarwaddy River (Irrawaddy River) rises in the N part of Myanmar and flows in a general S direction. The river originates from the junction of May Khan and Mali Khan streams which rise in the extreme N Myanmar. Ayeyarwaddy River reaches the sea by nine principal river mouths; Bassein (Pathein) River and its E entrance Thetkethaung, Ywe, Bogale, Ayeyarwaddy, Pyamalaw, Pyapon (Pva-Pon), China Bakir and Yangon Rivers. Bassein (Pathein) River (15º 56'.00N, 94º 19'.00E) is approached from seaward through coastal and inshore waters lying W and E of a chain of islands, rocks and shoals extending 13 miles SSW of Thamihla Kyun, which lies close off the river mouth. The river is navigable by sea going vessels as far as Pathein (16º 46'.80N, 94º 43'.90E) 75 miles above the river mouth. Bassein (Pathein)(16º 46'.80N, 94º 43'.90E), is the second largest sea port of Myanmar, it lies about 75 miles above the mouth of Bassein (Pathein) River. Vessels frequent the port between January and September. Bassein (Pathein) is primarily a rice exporting centre. Bassein is an important centre of regional government and commerce. Rice and rice products are the principal exports. The port is open to vessels upto 145m in length and 7m draught during the fine season and upto 7.3m draught during the SW monsoon. Deep draught vessels are sometimes detained at Dalhousie until the weather moderates during the SW monsoon. Preparis Island (14º 53'N, 93º 38' E), is 4.5 mile long, 81m high, narrow wooded Island gradually sloping to the shore. This Island lies about 60 miles SSW of Pathein Lighthouse(15º 42'.36 N, 94º 11'.89E). Preparis Island is the largest of a small group of islets and rocks lying between Preparis North Channel. The island is fringed with reefs in the S the reef extends upto 3½ miles, with many rocks above and below water. Preparis North Channel lies between Alguada Reefs and Preparis Island. Cow and Calf Island (14º 56'N, 93º 39'E), a group of three flat-topped islets of which the highest is 23m,they lie 1½ miles N of Preparis Island from which they are separated by a channel with a depth of 31m. A pinnacle rock with a depth of 2.7m lies 1½ miles E of the N end of Preparis Island. A rock awash lies ¾ miles S of the same point. Preparis North Channel, deep and clear in its central part, lies between Pathein (Alguada Reefs) and Preparis Island, about 56 miles SSW. Preparis Islands is narrow, wooded, fringed with reefs and rocks and slopes gradually from its highest point to the sea. Clear of Thalia shoal (15º 14'N, 93º 46'E) with least depth of 18.3m, lies about 21½ miles NNE of the N end of Preparis Island. Depths around this shoal are irregular and the bottom is mostly gray sand and coral. Mariners should note that less water than charted has been reported in an extensive area 15 miles NE of Thalia Shoal. Preparis South Channel lies between Preparis Island and Mingala kyun, the N island of Coco islands, 42 miles SSW. N of the rocky bank extending, NE from Mingala kyun(14° 11'.35N 93°22'.50E).the N- most of the Coco islands. The islands is densely wooded, expect on its S side, and presents a flat–topped, steep–sided shape from all direction. It is inhabited by a species of small dear. Mariners are advised to navigate well N of Mingala kyun because of strong tidal streams.