Plan afoot to set up 45 weather stations
Subhash Rajta
Tribune News Service
Shimla, August 5
Several precious lives can be saved during weather-related disasters like flashfloods if more weather observatory systems are set up in the state. “We need to have a dense network of automatic weather stations (AWS) in the mountains. If the network is dense enough, the forecast and alerts for extreme weather conditions can be more specific,” said Surender Paul, a former Director of the Meteorological Centre, Shimla. In fact, the plan to set up around 45 AWS was in process. “The project is at the MoU stage at present,” said Kuldeep Srivastava, new Director of the Meteorological Centre, Shimla.
Data gathered to help in preventive steps
Additional observatory systems will also offer other benefits in the longer run. The data gathered from these stations over the years will tell us which area is vulnerable to which hazard. Once we know it, preventive measures can be taken. Kuldeep Srivastava, Director, Met centre, Shimla
At present, there are around 27 or 28 AWS stations in the state, besides some manual facilities for collecting weather-related data. For more specific forecast and alerts — both in terms of time and place —the weather observatory systems need to be ramped up. “In plains, one AWS is sufficient for around 200 sq km. In hills, due to the topography and higher weather variations, there should be one AWS for 50 sq km. Ideally, there should be one AWS at the tehsil or block level. Such a network will help us gather more data, which will make the forecast more precise,” said Paul.
Besides having more weather observatory systems, several other steps need to be taken to mitigate losses from natural disasters that were occurring frequently in the state. “We should make an inventory of natural drainage and ensure construction is discouraged close to it,” said Paul.
Incidentally, the government had banned construction within 10 metres of rivers and nullahs following massive damage caused by heavy rains last year. According to Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh, the decision hadn’t been implemented strictly on the ground. “We need to implement the decision firmly, especially at places that are vulnerable to natural hazards. We will need to take some harsh steps to avoid such losses,” he added.
