How to locate potential dive sites

Question
Hi,

I live in Dhaka, Bangladesh and though it is a country with more than 500 rivers, there is nothing related to SCUBA diving here--- no diving sites, only 1/2 schools and even equipment like wetsuits is hard to find.

My Questions are---
1. What are the top ten websites, that I can use to find a new diving site, especially in rivers?
For e.g. there are free websites where you can use GPS and maps to track down places to climb, hike etc. Similarly, what are the websites for tracking a potential diving site in a river.

There are reports of underwater historic ruins, boat wreckage, non-native/rare fish, river dolphins, non-native plant life around Bangladesh. So I am pretty sure, a good analysis using satellite maps would turn out fruitful.

2. Also, is it possible to learn SCUBA diving by reading online learning materials and then practicing in a pond/pool? If so, can you recommend a free site?
Though I know this might be unsafe, I guess limiting myself to 50ft underwater should minimise any risks??

Thank You

Answer
Hello Rim, thank you for the questions.  I can provide you with a SCUBA web site that many people around the world use for sharing information.  I am not sure however how much information you might find about locations in Bangladesh.  You should be able to find more information about other locations near you however.  It is www.scubaboard.com.

It would be most unwise to attempt to learn SCUBA diving online or on your own.  It would be similar to trying to learn to fly a plane without a licensed instructor.  Only an instructor would be able to help you learn the proper techniques and skills to survive underwater (regardless of the depth you plan to dive).  While you could purchase equipment on the internet, dive shops would be unwilling to rent equipment or fill air tanks for you without a proper certification card from one of several agencies throughout the world (such as PADI, NAUI, or SSI).  I strongly encourage you to pursue training first.

I hope you are able to accomplish your exploration goals and thanks again for the good questions.
Jesse