Agartala, October 4, 2025: In a significant move to boost disaster preparedness and improve weather forecasting, the Centre has approved the installation of a Doppler radar at Belonia in South Tripura district. The new facility is expected to greatly enhance early warning capabilities, particularly in the flood-prone regions of the state.

At present, Tripura has only one Doppler radar, located at the India Meteorological Department (IMD) station in Agartala. The upcoming radar at Belonia will extend coverage across the entire South Tripura district, improving monitoring of rainfall patterns and storm activity.

District Magistrate Muhammad Sajad confirmed the Centre’s approval, stating, “The installation of the Doppler radar at Belonia will strengthen the early weather warning system. It will serve not only Belonia subdivision but the entire district.”

A review meeting was recently held to assess the site and finalize preparatory measures. “During the meeting, several key points regarding the installation were discussed. The facility will play a vital role in improving weather forecasting and disaster management in South Tripura,” Sajad added.

According to the district administration, the installation work is targeted for completion by February next year, ensuring the system becomes functional before the next monsoon season.

Highlighting the project’s urgency, Sajad said Belonia had suffered severe flood damage over the last two monsoon seasons due to its geographical proximity to the Bay of Bengal. “The radar will help us issue more accurate warnings and mitigate losses caused by heavy rainfall and floods,” he noted.

Once operational, the Doppler radar is expected to provide timely and precise data, enabling authorities to take early preventive action during extreme weather events.