Karnataka’s First Doppler Weather Radar in Mangaluru Delayed Due to Technical Hurdles

Karnataka’s inaugural C Band Doppler Weather Radar (DWR), set to be completed by January 15, is facing a slight delay due to technical challenges, according to N Puviarasan, head of the Bengaluru center of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The radar, based in Mangaluru, is now expected to begin operations by the end of this month.

IMD scientists have pointed out that the radar’s readings can be disrupted by any buildings taller than the radar within its range. The presence of such structures interferes with the accuracy of the weather data collected, which is crucial for weather forecasting and natural disaster preparedness.

Puviarasan discussed the delay during the IMD Bengaluru’s stakeholders’ workshop, held on January 4 to celebrate the department’s 150th anniversary. The event took place at the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Management Centre (KSNDMC) and included technical sessions by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and the Department of Agro Meteorology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru.

In addition to the Mangaluru project, the IMD has faced difficulties establishing an S-band DWR in Bengaluru due to complications in land acquisition. Puviarasan revealed that the original plan to install the radar at Nandi Hills was modified following a request from Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje. The radar’s installation in Bengaluru, intended to enhance weather forecasting and disaster preparedness, was announced by Karandlaje on July 23, 2024.

Read also:

• Bengaluru Misses Out on Advanced Weather Radar as Mangaluru Takes the Lead
• Bengaluru to Get C-Band Doppler Weather Radar for Enhanced Forecasting