IMD Set to Launch Block-Level and Panchayat-Level Weather Forecasts in Mizoram

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- IMD to provide detailed weather forecasts at block and panchayat levels.
- MoU signed with Directorate of Science and Technology for enhanced meteorological data.
- Focus on Agriculture, Disaster Management, and other crucial sectors.
- Mizoram is prone to natural disasters, which necessitates improved weather services.
- Importance of sustainable land use and forest conservation emphasized by the Chief Minister.
Aizawl, Feb 24 (NationPress) The Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, announced on Monday that the department is preparing to deliver block-level and panchayat-level weather forecasts for the state of Mizoram.
In collaboration with Mizoram's Directorate of Science and Technology (DST), the IMD has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to furnish meteorological data for climate research and weather services.
The signing ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Lalduhoma and IMD chief Mohapatra.
Mohapatra emphasized the significance of this MoU through the initiative titled ‘Mission Mausam’, detailing the IMD’s future plans and services aimed at benefiting both the nation and Mizoram.
Officials indicated that a meteorological center (state headquarters) will be established at the Science Centre located in Aizawl’s Berawtlang.
The Chief Minister expressed his congratulations to the IMD and DST for this landmark collaboration, noting that it represents the first MoU between the Mizoram government and any Central agency.
He stated, “The Mizoram government is pleased to support the IMD in enhancing its services for the welfare of the state and its agricultural community,”.
During the event, Sudheer Kumar Dwivedi, Director of IMD Mizoram, highlighted the current IMD services provided to various sectors, including Agriculture, Disaster Management, Irrigation, and Public Health Engineering of the Mizoram government.
K.N. Mohan, Additional Director General of IMD, provided insights into the advancements in meteorological instruments and the technological support for the IMD’s weather services.
The mountainous region of Mizoram is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters, especially landslides.
During a recent meeting with the 16th Finance Commission in Aizawl, the Chief Minister urged the panel to consider providing special financial assistance to his state due to its challenging geography and recurrent natural disasters such as floods and landslides, as well as issues like water scarcity.
While addressing the Commission led by Chairman Arvind Panagariya, he remarked that over 84 percent of Mizoram’s land is forested, presenting challenges for land availability. He underscored the necessity for sustainable land use practices, conservation efforts for forests, flora, and fauna, along with the need for special financial support to tackle these issues.