NEW DELHI: In view of the unprecedented natural disasters in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has decided to install four additional radars under Mission Mausam to improve weather forecasts and early warnings.
With three radars already operational, the total will now rise to seven, giving J&K one of the densest radar networks in the country. The enhanced system will allow round-the-clock monitoring of weather patterns and timely forecasts to minimise losses through early warnings and better preparedness.
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, said the Ministry of Earth Sciences and IMD are providing dedicated district-wise forecasts for weather-affected regions in North India, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab.
During a high-level review meeting with the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu and the Deputy Commissioners of Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Kathua, and Udhampur, Singh gave instructions via video conference to assess relief and rehabilitation measures in the wake of unprecedented rainfall, cloudbursts, and flash floods.
The minister, who also represents Udhampur in the Lok Sabha, stressed the importance of ensuring potable drinking water through the supply of water filters and medical kits to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
He said two additional consignments of ration kits and state-of-the-art water filters would be made available by tomorrow, while food packets and essential medicines are being dispatched from his MP funds, supplementing government relief measures.
Singh further informed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has set up an inter-ministerial committee to assess damages and ensure coordinated assistance, which will also visit Kathua today. He assured that no effort will be spared to provide relief and rehabilitation to affected people in all five districts. The Centre and state, he added, are working in close coordination, and the local administrations deserve appreciation for their courage and commitment in facing the crisis.