DAMINI APP NEWS
MALDA NEWS: Farmers working in the paddy fields of Puratan Malda’s Atmail area are unaware of the 'Damini App.' On a cloudy day, amidst the sweltering heat, a group of farmers toils in the fields, wearing special bamboo hats called 'matals.' When asked about the 'Damini App,' Biplab Sarkar, a farmer in his forties, replied, "I've never heard of it." Like him, other farmers in the area are also unaware of this app.
The 'Damini App' was launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in November 2019 to provide lightning forecasts. According to meteorologists, sensors installed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and Earth Science System Organization can detect lightning strikes within a 20 to 40-kilometer radius through the app.
Following the tragic death of 11 people in the district due to lightning on Thursday, questions have arisen about the administration's lack of awareness campaigns regarding the 'Damini App.' All 11 victims were either working in fields or mango orchards. Falgun Saha, the wife of the deceased Chandan Saha from Sahapur, said, "If we had known about the lightning, I would never have let my husband go to the orchard. We can predict storms and rain, but there’s no way to know when lightning will strike. If the administration had informed us in advance, people could have taken precautions."
The administration has now taken notice and plans to promote the 'Damini App.' Malda District Magistrate Nitin Singhania stated, "The 'Damini App' provides lightning forecasts. We will conduct awareness campaigns about it. Additionally, workshops will be held at the panchayat level to educate people on what to do during storms, rain, and lightning."
By promoting the 'Damini App' and educating the public, the administration hopes to increase awareness and help prevent future tragedies caused by lightning strikes.
Q&A
Q: What is the 'Damini App'?
A: The 'Damini App' is an application developed by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in India to provide lightning forecasts and alerts. It helps users to be aware of potential lightning strikes in their vicinity.
Q: How does the 'Damini App' work?
A: The app uses sensors installed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and Earth Science System Organization to detect lightning activity within a 20 to 40-kilometer radius. It sends alerts to users about possible lightning strikes in their area.
Q: Why is there a need to promote the 'Damini App'?
A: Recent incidents, such as the tragic death of 11 people due to lightning in Puratan Malda, highlight the lack of awareness about the app. Promoting the app can help inform people about impending lightning strikes and enable them to take necessary precautions, thereby saving lives.
Q: How can people download and use the 'Damini App'?
A: Users with Android smartphones can easily download the 'Damini App' from the Google Play Store. Once installed, the app provides real-time alerts and information about lightning strikes in the user's area.
Q: What steps is the administration taking to promote the 'Damini App'?
A: The administration plans to conduct awareness campaigns to inform the public about the app. Additionally, workshops will be held at the panchayat level to educate people on safety measures during storms, rain, and lightning.
Q: What should people do during a lightning storm to stay safe?
A: During a lightning storm, people should avoid open fields, tall trees, and water bodies. It is advisable to stay indoors and away from windows. If indoors, unplug electrical devices to avoid electrical surges caused by lightning.
Q: How can the 'Damini App' benefit farmers and outdoor workers?
A: The 'Damini App' can provide timely alerts to farmers and outdoor workers about potential lightning strikes, allowing them to seek shelter and avoid dangerous situations, thus reducing the risk of injuries or fatalities.
Q: What other measures can the government take to increase lightning safety awareness?
A: Besides promoting the 'Damini App,' the government can implement educational programs in schools and communities, distribute informational pamphlets, and use media platforms to spread awareness about lightning safety and the importance of using the app.
Q: Are there similar apps or tools available globally for lightning detection?
A: Yes, various countries have their own lightning detection systems and apps. For example, the United States has the National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN), and apps like My Lightning Tracker provide similar services to users worldwide.
- Report by News Malbazar representative
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