On Saturday, villagers in Jalasangi were left confused and alarmed when a large air balloon with a scientific payload fell in their area. The balloon, which was part of a weather study project, was launched by the Hyderabad-based Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). It landed on a neem tree, prompting panic among locals who initially believed it to be satellite debris.
Humnabad police quickly responded to the scene, investigating the incident, and later confirmed that the balloon, along with its research equipment, was part of a TIFR scientific study. According to the deputy commissioner, TIFR is conducting a series of balloon launches for weather studies from December 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025. The balloons are designed to descend gradually within a radius of 200 km to 350 km from Hyderabad.
Residents were reassured that there was no need for panic as the area falls within the designated drop zone. The authorities advised that anyone who encounters similar balloons should contact the nearest police station or tahsil office.
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