Darbhanga: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is set to strengthen its weather monitoring capabilities with the installation of new Doppler weather radars across the country, with Bihar’s Darbhanga district selected as a key location.
Under the plan, the central government will install 14 Doppler radars at an estimated cost of around Rs 340 crore, aimed at improving forecasting accuracy and early warning systems for extreme weather events.
Darbhanga has been chosen as the only location in Bihar among the selected sites, a move seen as significant for enhancing weather surveillance in north Bihar.
Member of Parliament and BJP whip in the Lok Sabha, Dr Gopalji Thakur, met Union minister for earth sciences Jitendra Singh in Delhi to express his gratitude for the decision. The minister was felicitated with a traditional Mithila welcome, including a makhana garland, turban and shawl.
According to officials, the project includes the installation of advanced C-band and X-band Doppler radars across the country. These systems are capable of monitoring weather patterns within a radius of approximately 250 to 400 kilometres.
Once operational, the Darbhanga radar is expected to provide timely and accurate weather updates not only for the district but also for the wider Mithila and Kosi regions, including Madhubani, Samastipur, Sitamarhi and Saharsa.
The improved system will enable authorities to issue early warnings for extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall, cyclones, hailstorms and lightning strikes, particularly during the monsoon season.
Experts say the enhanced forecasting capability could play a crucial role in reducing loss of life and property by allowing better preparedness and response to natural disasters.
The initiative forms part of a broader effort by the government to modernise India’s meteorological infrastructure and strengthen climate resilience across vulnerable regions.
