On December 29, 2020, Minister for Earth Sciences (MoES) Dr Harsh Vardhan virtually inaugurated India’s highest meteorological centre in Leh. This is the second Indian meteorological centre in the Himalayas, after Arunachal Pradesh’s Itanagar. It is perched at 3,500 metres above sea level. The Union Territory of Ladakh has only two districts, Leh and Kargil. However, in these areas, there are different ‘micro-climatic zones’ ranging from hills and cold deserts to plains and highly arid places. According to an Indian Express report, RK Mathur, Lt Governor, Ladakh has said, “All these micro-climatic regions require specific and localised weather monitoring and information.” Also, here are 5 budget places to stay in Leh-Ladakh.
Also Read: Travel From Srinagar To Leh In Just 15 Minutes Through The Upcoming Zojila Tunnel
IMD To Install Ten Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) At Leh-Ladakh
The highest meteorological centre in India has come up at Leh, at a height of 3,500 metres above sea level. Dr Harsh Vardhan has said, “Ladakh remains vulnerable to erratic weather and changing climate that have adverse effects on the lives of the locals. In addition, the UT is a geo-strategic location from the security point of view. All of these together, the Government of India decided to establish an MC in Leh.” The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will install ten Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) at the main locations like Drass, Kargil, Pangong Tso, Zanskar Valley and Nubra Valley. Meanwhile, the confluence of Zanskar and Indus in Ladakh is the prettiest thing you will ever see.
Watch Now! Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan inaugurates @Indiametdept’s Meteorological Centre at Leh via VC. @PMOIndia @moesgoi https://t.co/1JGMAK9N19
— DrHarshVardhanOffice (@DrHVoffice) December 29, 2020
The Weather Forecasts Will Benefit The Locals As Well As Tourists
Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, director-general, IMD has said, “The IMD plans to augment its existing operations in the region so as to provide timely weather updates and warnings ahead of disasters like cloud bursts in this geographically unique region.” Mohapatra added, “Along with the locals, the forecasts will benefit tourists, the defence sector, disaster management and agriculture departments in the region.” Lt Governor RK Mathur has said that the authorities will install weather-display boards at various locations. Information will be made available via mobile-based applications as well. Additionally, the scientists will also collect seismological data from the region. On that note, here’s a virtual tour of Ladakh from the comfort of your couch:
