Lucknow: In a major boost to India’s weather forecasting and climate monitoring capabilities, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh jointly inaugurated the new Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Lucknow on Sunday.
The centre is designed to strengthen weather forecasting, disaster preparedness, and climate services across Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and adjoining regions.
Major Expansion of India’s Weather Forecasting Network
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that India’s meteorological infrastructure has seen “unprecedented expansion” over the past decade under the government’s modernization drive.
He said the transformation has enabled more accurate, localized, and impact-based weather forecasting, benefiting farmers, disaster management authorities, aviation services, tourists, and citizens.
Mission Mausam: India Moving Toward 100 Doppler Radars
The Union Minister provided key updates on the expansion of weather monitoring systems under Mission Mausam, stating:
- India had only 17 Doppler Weather Radars in 2014
- The network has now grown to 50 operational radars
- Another 50 radars are planned, taking the total to nearly 100 within two years
He said this expansion will significantly enhance real-time monitoring and early warning systems across the country.
Uttar Pradesh Weather Infrastructure Sees Rapid Growth
Highlighting progress in Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the state’s meteorological infrastructure has expanded significantly in the last decade.
Key developments include:
- Doppler Weather Radars increased from 1 (2014) to 3 operational units
- Several more radars are currently being installed
- Automatic Weather Stations increased from 59 to 107
- Automatic Rain Gauge Stations increased from 132 to 140
- Lightning detection sensors increased from 0 to 7
- Weather services now available at 11 airports across the state
He noted that Uttar Pradesh’s diverse geography makes it highly vulnerable to floods, droughts, heatwaves, and thunderstorms, making advanced forecasting systems essential.
Regional Meteorological Centre to Serve UP, Uttarakhand and Beyond
The newly inaugurated Regional Meteorological Centre in Lucknow will serve Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and surrounding regions.
Its key objectives include:
- Strengthening regional weather monitoring
- Improving localized forecasting accuracy
- Enhancing early warning dissemination
- Supporting disaster management and emergency response
Officials also confirmed plans for additional infrastructure upgrades, including new Doppler radars and wind profiler systems in collaboration with the state government.
Improved Disaster Preparedness Through Early Warning Systems
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that improved forecasting systems play a critical role in reducing disaster risks by enabling early warnings for:
- Flash floods
- Cloudbursts
- Thunderstorms
- Lightning strikes
- Avalanches
He urged citizens and local administrations to take weather alerts seriously and act promptly on advisories issued by meteorological agencies.
Expansion of Meteorological Services in Uttarakhand
The minister also highlighted significant improvements in Uttarakhand, a state highly prone to extreme weather events.
Key updates include:
- Installation of 3 Doppler Weather Radars (previously none)
- Expansion of weather monitoring infrastructure
- Increased airport meteorological observatories
- Enhanced lightning detection systems
These upgrades aim to improve forecasting accuracy in the Himalayan region, which faces frequent natural disasters.
Better Forecasting Now Supporting Agriculture, Aviation and Public Safety
According to officials, improved meteorological services are now supporting multiple sectors including:
- Agriculture planning and crop management
- Aviation safety and airport operations
- Disaster risk reduction and emergency response
- Tourism and travel planning
Forecasting has evolved from broad regional predictions to highly localized, real-time weather updates, allowing better preparedness.
Weather Data Now Reaching Districts and Panchayats in Real Time
The Union Minister said that weather information is now being delivered directly to:
- District administrations
- Local authorities
- Panchayati Raj institutions
This real-time dissemination ensures faster decision-making and improved disaster response at the grassroots level.
A Major Step in India’s Climate Resilience Strategy
The inauguration of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Lucknow marks a significant milestone in strengthening India’s weather and climate services architecture.
With the continued rollout of Mission Mausam, India aims to build a highly advanced forecasting network that enhances climate resilience, protects lives, and supports sustainable development across the country.
