Automatic Weather Station in DG Khan planned

Real-time data to be generated for hill torrents monitoring

DERA GHAZI KHAN:

The Ghazi University plans to host an Automatic Weather Station (AWS) under a World Bank-supported project.

The initiative, being implemented by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), aims to modernise national hydrometeorological observation, forecasting and climate service delivery.

According to a statement, the project is expected to strengthen early warning systems and disaster preparedness, particularly in areas vulnerable to extreme weather and climate hazards.

The proposed station at the university will provide real-time, high-resolution meteorological data for weather forecasting and monitoring associated with the hill torrents in Dera Ghazi Khan.

Given the region's vulnerability to flash floods and hill torrents, the installation represents an important step towards improving early warning capabilities and protecting communities, livelihoods and infrastructure.

Under Phase-I of the countrywide project, 110 AWS are being installed, including 25 in Punjab..

A project team recently visited the Ghazi University and met Vice Chancellor Dr Ashfaq Ahmad.

The team assessed and finalised the proposed location and signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) designating the university as an AWS installation site.

The visiting delegation comprised WB Environment and Social Safeguards Consultant Hassan Shafiq, Hydrology Consultant Dr M Yasir, Lahore Regional Meteorological Centre Director Abdul Aziz and PMD Meteorological Sajid Hussain.

On the occasion, Vice Chancellor Dr Ashfaq Ahmad expressed the university's commitment to supporting the initiative.

He stated that the facility would not only strengthen real-time weather monitoring and forecasting in Dera Ghazi Khan but also enhance the monitoring and early warning of hill torrents, helping improve disaster preparedness and protect local communities from potential hazards.