Construction has begun in Puttalam to install a new Doppler radar system to strengthen Sri Lanka’s severe weather forecasting capability, Cabinet Spokesperson Nalinda Jayatissa said. 

Speaking at the weekly Cabinet briefing, he said the radar would be acquired with support from the Government of Japan and is expected to be operational by 2027. 

The project will significantly upgrade the Department of Meteorology, alongside additional equipment. 

Jayatissa said the new system, separate from the radar installed in 2017, would improve forecast accuracy and help protect lives.