The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has announced plans to install state-of-the-art surveillance radars across the country. This initiative aims to improve the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasts, providing crucial insights into climate change and enhancing disaster preparedness.
The PMD plans to install five fixed surveillance radars in strategic locations, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Cherat, Dera Ismail Khan, Quetta, Gwadar, and Lahore. Karachi, which already has a compatible radar station, will continue to play a key role in the country’s weather monitoring network.
In addition to the fixed radars, three portable surveillance radars will be deployed nationwide, offering flexibility and enhanced coverage. Furthermore, 300 automatic weather stations will be established in various cities to provide real-time data. The distribution of these stations will see Balochistan receiving 105, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 75, Sindh 85 (including Karachi), and Punjab 35.
Director General Sahibzad Khan highlighted that the project is funded by the World Bank, with a total budget of Rs 14 billion ($50 million). The initiative will be executed over three years, with the collaboration of foreign experts and local engineers to ensure the successful installation and operation of the equipment.
The installation of these modern weather radars and stations is expected to significantly enhance Pakistan’s ability to monitor and respond to weather-related events. By providing timely and accurate climate change insights, the new system will aid in better forecasting and early warning systems, ultimately contributing to improved disaster management and public safety.