X-Band Radar

In October 2024, following the devastating floods and landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, in July 2024, the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences approved the installation of an X-band radar to enhance landslide monitoring and early warning systems.

Key Points

Landslide Triggers and Impacts: Heavy rainfall in the Mundakkai region led to landslides, killing over 200 people. The disaster was compounded by a massive debris flow triggered by the rain.
Radar Technology Overview: The X-band radar operates in the 8-12 GHz range, emitting short-wavelength radio waves that produce high-resolution images, essential for tracking small particles like rain and soil.
Monitoring Landslide Movements: The radar will perform high temporal sampling to detect rapid particle movements, aiding in precise and timely landslide warnings.
India's Expanding Radar Network: India plans to install up to 56 additional Doppler radars by 2026 under 'Mission Mausam,' enhancing weather and disaster monitoring across the country.
Collaborative Efforts in Radar Imaging: The upcoming NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite will use advanced radar imaging to create detailed maps of Earth’s surface, supporting disaster management and environmental monitoring.
Improved Preparedness: The X-band radar in Wayanad, along with a C-band radar in Mangaluru, will improve regional forecasting, helping to mitigate future landslide disasters.