Bhubaneswar, Sept 2: In a significant stride toward enhancing disaster preparedness and weather forecasting accuracy, Odisha is set to operationalize Doppler Radar Systems in three key locations: Bhubaneswar, Balasore, and Sambalpur.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Tuesday said that the radar in Bhubaneswar will become functional within days, with infrastructure work already completed. The installations in Balasore and Sambalpur are expected to follow shortly, he added.

The move comes as part of the state’s broader initiative to strengthen its meteorological capabilities, especially in light of Odisha’s vulnerability to cyclones, floods, and lightning strikes. These advanced radar systems will enable real-time tracking of severe weather events, allowing authorities to issue timely warnings and reduce the impact of natural disasters.

The Bhubaneswar radar, equipped with modern technology, will provide high-resolution data for short-term forecasts, particularly benefiting urban centers prone to flooding. Balasore will also host a dedicated research center focused on lightning phenomena, aiming to improve safety protocols and deepen scientific understanding.

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Minister Pujari emphasized the importance of robust infrastructure and interdepartmental coordination in disaster management. “With these radars, we can predict severe weather conditions up to three hours in advance, which is crucial for saving lives and minimizing damage,” he stated.

The initiative aligns with the state’s ongoing efforts to develop disaster-resilient infrastructure, including 24-hour emergency control rooms and over 900 multi-purpose shelters across the state. The radar installations are part of a national plan to deploy 32 advanced weather radars across India, with Odisha playing a pivotal role.