Uttar Pradesh to Implement Early Lightning Detection System

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced plans to establish an early lightning detection and warning system to reduce casualties during monsoon seasons. Set up in three phases, the Rs 300 crore project will provide real-time alerts, enhancing safety measures across the state.

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced an initiative to install an early lightning detection and warning system aimed at reducing the number of casualties from lightning strikes, particularly during the monsoon season, officials confirmed on Saturday.

The Uttar Pradesh Lightning Alert Management System will be rolled out in three phases, according to state officials. This move follows alarming statistics from the state's relief department, reporting that 84 people have died from lightning strikes this month alone, with 43 deaths occurring within a 24-hour timeframe starting at 6:30 pm on July 10.

Dr. Manish Ranalkar, director of the meteorological department in Lucknow, emphasized the state's urgent need for a state-of-the-art detection system, prompted by directives from the chief minister to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). The new system will use time-of-arrival (ToA) technology, offering more accurate, real-time warnings compared to the current radar and satellite-based systems.

Naveen Kumar, Uttar Pradesh Relief Commissioner, added that the first phase will see implementation in 37 districts by the end of this year, with subsequent phases covering an additional 20 and 18 districts.