Advanced X-Band Doppler Weather Radar to Be Installed in Belonia
Belonia, Dec 24: In a major boost to weather forecasting and disaster preparedness in Tripura, an advanced X-band Doppler Weather Radar will soon be installed in Belonia, South Tripura. The radar will be set up at the new District Magistrate (DM) Office Complex and will be installed, operated, and maintained by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The high-resolution X-band Doppler Weather Radar, with a coverage radius of 100 kilometres, will significantly enhance real-time monitoring of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, cyclones, lightning, and other extreme weather events across South Tripura and adjoining regions. The new system will enable more accurate and timely weather forecasts, strengthening early warning mechanisms in the state.
Addressing a press conference at the District Magistrate’s Conference Hall on Wednesday afternoon, District Magistrate Mohammad Sajjad P said the IMD aims to complete installation and commission the radar before the onset of the upcoming monsoon season. He emphasized that the project is part of a broader effort to improve weather surveillance and disaster risk management in Tripura.
The press meet was also attended by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Debashish Das and IMD meteorologist Dr Partha Roy, who highlighted the technical advantages of the X-band radar in tracking localized and rapidly evolving weather systems.
The District Magistrate further noted that the Belonia installation will be Tripura’s second Doppler Weather Radar, complementing the existing radar operational in Agartala since 2011. Together, the two radars will provide improved spatial coverage and more precise weather data for South Tripura and neighbouring areas.
He added that the new radar will substantially enhance the IMD’s forecasting accuracy and early warning capabilities, enabling the state administration to work in close coordination with the IMD to strengthen disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation strategies. The enhanced monitoring system is expected to play a crucial role in minimizing loss of life and property during extreme weather events, particularly during the monsoon and cyclone seasons.