In a gesture of goodwill and enhanced bilateral cooperation, China has bestowed Pakistan with 25 meteorological detectors valued at US$1 million, aiming to bolster early warnings of lightning and fortify the safety of the people in Tharparkar, safeguarding lives and property. This significant contribution was highlighted by Mehr Sahibzad Khan, the Director General of the Meteorological Department.
The weather detectors, gifted by China free of charge, are poised to play a pivotal role in predicting lightning events in a timely manner. Mehr Sahibzad Khan emphasized that the installation of these detectors is part of a broader initiative spanning the entire country. Additionally, he disclosed that a radar with an impressive range of 14,000 km is being procured from China, enhancing Pakistan’s capabilities to identify and respond to natural disasters attributable to climate change.
The introduction of this state-of-the-art equipment is particularly crucial for Tharparkar, a region that has witnessed numerous casualties in recent years due to lightning strikes. In 2019, a tragic incident claimed the lives of several dozen people and hundreds of cattle in Tharparkar, underscoring the urgent need for advanced meteorological tools to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters.
Mehr Sahibzad Khan’s announcement signifies a significant step toward strengthening Pakistan’s resilience against climate-related challenges. The proactive approach, coupled with international collaboration, reflects a shared commitment to ensuring the well-being and safety of communities vulnerable to unpredictable weather patterns. As climate change continues to pose threats, investments in advanced meteorological infrastructure become imperative, and China’s contribution is poised to make a meaningful difference in protecting lives and mitigating the impact of weather-related disasters in Pakistan.
