Jammu: An automatic weather observatory has been installed on Trikuta hills, the abode of Mata Vaishnodevi cave shrine, in Jammu region.
Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh today inaugurated the observatory at Saanji Chhat in Trikuta hills. The Department of Earth Science has set up this modern weather forecasting system in the wake of the devastating floods in Jammu and Kashmir.
The observatory will serve as an early warning system through constant monitoring of water levels of different rivers across the Jammu region.
Till now, Jammu and Kashmir solely depended on forecasts provided by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Now aided by information from the new facility, the agencies will be better equipped to warn about adverse weather conditions.
IMD is making concerted efforts to upgrade meteorological equipment and services in the state with special thrust on providing yatra-related forecast to the general public.
The system has been commissioned at a time when choppers are playing a crucial role in relief and rescue operations in the entire state which is reeling under unprecedented flood situation, an official said, adding that this system will not only be beneficial for helicopters operating at Sanji Chhat, but also for the helicopters operated by Indian Army, BSF and IAF from nearby airbases.
After inauguration of the facility at Sanji Chhat, a special weather-related web page was inaugurated by the minister at Katra.
The webpage, hosted on IMD website, will provide weather update and forecast of Shri Mata Vaishnodevi round the year. This web page will also be linked to SMVD website for the benefit of public for planning their yatra.
Additionally, a help desk has been opened at Niharika Complex, Katra to provide weather-related information to the people. Automatic Weather System will also be installed at Katra and Bhawan.
The inaugural function was co-hosted by IMD and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
