State-of-the-Art Disdrometer Installed at Gaggal  Airport of Dharamsala to Boost Weather Analysis

Dharamsala (Arvind Sharma)23/11/24

 In a significant development, the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, has installed a cutting-edge Disdrometer at Dharamsala’s Gaggal Airport, marking a first for the Himalayan region. The installation was completed on Saturday, as informed  by Airport Director Mr. Dhirendra Singh.

Explaining the device’s functionality, Singh said, “A Disdrometer is an advanced instrument used to measure the size distribution and velocity of raindrops, along with rain intensity and rainfall accumulation, providing critical data every 30 seconds. This sophisticated technology will play a pivotal role in understanding the microphysics of precipitation.”

The initiative aims to deepen insights into the region’s unique precipitation patterns and complex weather phenomena. Singh highlighted its benefits, noting that the data collected will contribute to improving regional weather models, hydrological studies, and climate research. Importantly, it also enhances aviation safety by offering precise rainfall characteristics, aiding weather predictions for the Kangra-Dharamshala region and the airport’s immediate surroundings.

The Disdrometer was officially inaugurated at Gaggal Airport by Mr. Dhirendra Singh in the presence of key officials, including IMD’s Mr. Vipan Sharma, IITM’s Dr. Kaustav Chakravarty (Scientist-F), and Mr. Harikrishna Devisetty (Scientist-B), along with the airport team.