J&K to Get Four New Radars After Adverse Weather Events

Fast Summary:

• Union Science Minister Jitendra Singh announced the installation of four additional radars under “mission Mausam” to improve weather forecasting and early warnings in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K).
• Currently, there are three operational radars in J&K and Ladakh. No timeline or specific locations for the new radars were revealed.
• The decision follows unprecedented rainfall, cloudbursts, and flash floods in the region, with several areas inundated.
• Authorities issued an evacuation advisory for low-lying areas in Budgam district after Jhelum river overflowed; relief camps have been set up.
• Rainfall across northwestern India during June-August was 26% higher than usual. Nationwide monsoon rain during this period was 6% above normal levels.
• IMD highlighted intensified northern monsoons due to combined western disturbances from the mediterranean and storms moving northwards from the Bay of Bengal.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The addition of four new radars under Mission Mausam signals India’s increasing commitment to bolstering disaster preparedness amid rising occurrences of extreme weather events like flash floods and cloudbursts. Accurate predictions can substantially enhance disaster response mechanisms, potentially saving lives and reducing economic losses.

The overactive monsoon season highlights shifting climatic patterns that call for robust infrastructure growth at both national and regional levels. Relief efforts following damages caused by extreme rainfall underscore ongoing challenges in adapting to unpredictable climate trends impacting northern India more acutely. Ensuring sustained inter-ministerial coordination like that led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah can set precedents for tackling future crises efficiently.

Read more: Flood alert issued as Jhelum overflows

!people on a makeshift boat after being rescued from a flooded village