Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 26: The Centre has announced a major expansion of India’s Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) network to strengthen real-time weather monitoring and disaster preparedness. The number of operational radars will rise from 37 to 73 by 2025-26, and further to 126 by 2026.
Union minister Dr Jitendra Singh, who chaired a high-level review meeting with the India Meteorological Department (IMD), emphasised the need for faster expansion and modernisation of meteorological systems across the country. High-priority locations for new radars include Bengaluru, Raipur, Ahmedabad, Ranchi, Guwahati and Port Blair.
Dr Singh also directed officials to boost Delhi’s forecasting infrastructure by increasing Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) from 18 to 100 in the long run, with 50 new AWS installations to be expedited.
“No weather hazard should go undetected or unpredicted,” the minister stressed, highlighting the growing need for real-time, impact-based forecasting amid rising climate extremes.
He was also briefed on the progress of ‘Mission Mausam,’ a national initiative to upgrade weather infrastructure, including satellite systems and prediction models.
Advanced tracking systems, Dr Singh said, will enhance disaster response and benefit key sectors such as agriculture, aviation and fisheries.