Banihal gets Colour Doppler Radar

Technology is a big boon when employed judiciously. Jammu and Kashmir, of late, has seen natural calamities more frequently in recent years than in the past. 2014 Kashmir and Jammu floods, the Amarnath tragedy last year, and cloud bursts at many places in the recent past are just awakening calls from mother nature. Climate changes are just getting from bad to worse and with each passing year we are experiencing extreme weather conditions, excessive heat waves followed by drastic rains and then extremely harsh winters. Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism has been the mainstay of livelihood as such this intermittent unpredictable weather can be disastrous for the tourism industry. It had happened in the past and it can happen again in future also. To precisely forecast weather technology is the viable solution. Two X-band Doppler Radars had already been installed at Srinagar and Jammu and the third latest one is the new entrant at Banihal top. This radar with a range of one hundred kilometres can be a game changer for residents and tourists. X-band Radars are typically used for studies about cloud development and light precipitation due to their ability to detect tiny water particles and snow. The main advantages include providing greater spectral efficiency, a lower chance for interference, less rain fade and greater satellite separation. Installed at a height it can easily predict the looming danger hidden in the clouds and residents as well as tourists can be forewarned safeguarding everyone. It will play the most important role because of NH 44 landslide problems. With the proper forecasts, the public can pre-pone or postpone their journey. With Gujjars-Bakerwals and other nomads scattered all along this terrain this radar can be a lifesaver for them. Similarly in peak winters when heavy snowfall plays havoc with Grid Power lines, forecasts from this Doppler Radar will allow proper planning of repair schedules without risking the lives of workers. GoI and LG Administration are working in tandem to safeguard the citizens. Human lives are precious as such every step in that direction is invaluable and much appreciated.