Uttarakhand Seeks Advanced Weather Warning Systems Amid Climate-Induced Disasters

Strategic Insights -

Uttarakhand, grappling with the aftermath of recent flash floods, has urged the Union government to establish three Doppler radars in its higher reaches, including Kedarnath and Bhagirathi valleys. This move comes as climate change and environmental degradation have triggered a series of disasters in the state over the last few years. The request is aimed at enhancing the state's ability to predict and respond to extreme weather events, particularly flash floods and landslides.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Uttarakhand government has requested the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to set up three Doppler radars in the higher reaches of the state, including Kedarnath and Bhagirathi valleys.
  • Doppler radars provide advanced information on internal wind flow and structure, enabling the quantification of weather system severity and more precise warnings.
  • Uttarakhand has three existing Doppler radars, but more are needed in higher reaches to enhance disaster preparedness and response.
  • Climate change and environmental degradation have triggered a string of disasters in Uttarakhand over the last few years, highlighting the need for advanced warning systems.
  • The state's higher Himalayan valleys are more susceptible to extreme weather events, such as the 2013 Kedarnath flash floods and the 2021 Chamoli glacial burst.
  • Activist Ajay Gautam has filed petitions related to disasters in Uttarakhand, emphasizing the need for advanced warning systems and more Doppler radars to prevent human losses.
  • Over 51% of Uttarakhand is in very high landslide susceptible zones, according to the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology.

Statistics:

  • 4,127 people lost their lives in the 2013 Kedarnath flash floods.
  • 204 lives were claimed in the 2021 Chamoli glacial burst.
  • Over 51% of Uttarakhand is in very high landslide susceptible zones.
  • Three Doppler radars are currently operational in Uttarakhand, at Lansdowne, Mukteshwar, and Surkanda.
  • Uttarakhand is planning to set up three more Doppler radars in higher reaches to enhance disaster preparedness and response.

Sources:

  • "Uttarakhand seeks advanced weather warning systems amid climate-induced disasters" by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Hindustan Times.