India Enhances Weather Radar and Disaster Response Capabilities
The Indian government has announced significant enhancements to its weather monitoring and disaster response systems. With 47 operational Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs), 87% of the country’s landscape is now covered by radar technology. This initiative is part of the “Mission Mausam” program, launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, which aims to prepare India for extreme weather events and climate change impacts.
Upgrades to Observation Networks
The improvement in the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) observation networks from 2014 to 2025 highlights the advancement in the nation’s ability to track weather patterns. A comparison of data reveals significant growth in various systems, such as the increase in Automatic Weather Stations from 675 to 1008 and Rain Gauge Stations from 3500 to 6726. These enhancements demonstrate India’s commitment to refining its weather observation systems over the past decade.
Mobile Alert Systems for Severe Weather
In collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Centre of Development of Telematics (C-DOT), the IMD utilizes mobile-based alert systems to effectively communicate weather warnings. Through the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), alerts for severe weather, including heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, are generated using the SACHET platform. State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) distribute these alerts via SMS to targeted users, alongside accessibility through the SACHET website and mobile app. The alerts also reach global platforms like Google and AccuWeather.
Improved Disaster Preparedness
These upgrades have markedly enhanced India’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities. Since August 2021, over 9342 crore SMS alerts have been sent, significantly aiding public awareness during extreme weather events. For instance, during the recent cyclone “MonTha,” the IMD dispatched 77.64 crore SMS messages, contributing to a safer environment. These advancements have not only improved the accuracy of weather forecasts but have also played a pivotal role in reducing fatalities linked to extreme weather. The death toll from tropical cyclones has plummeted from approximately 7000 during the 1999 Odisha Super Cyclone to fewer than 100 in more recent years. Furthermore, accurate forecasts can save up to 1100 crore rupees by mitigating expenses related to evacuation and loss of life.
Comparative Overview of IMD Observation Networks
Below is a comparative analysis of the IMD weather observational network status at the end of 2014 versus the end of 2025:
| Parameter/System | As of End of 2014 | As of End of 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic Weather Station network | 675 | 1008 |
| Doppler Weather Radar | 15 | 47 |
| Rain Gauge Stations | 3500 | 6726 |
| Runway Visual Range Systems | 20 | 186 (49 Drishti+137 FSM RVR) |
| Weather Instrument Systems at RWY | In 29 Airports | In 93 Airports (137 CWISs) |
| Pressure measuring | Mercury Barometers | Digital Barometers |
| Upper air observations | 43 RS/RW Stations 62 Pilot Balloon Stations | 56 RS/RW Stations, 62 Pilot Balloon Stations |
| High Wind Speed Recorders | 19 | 36 (Goa station decommissioned) |
| Lightning Location Network | None | 104 locations |
This information was provided by Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Earth Sciences and Science and Technology, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha.
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