Storm project

To mitigate the damage caused by frequent cyclones, six Asian countries, including India, will undertake an effective storm warning project. The five-year project is worth $45 million, and will be coordinated by India. B N Krishnamurthy of the department of ocean development has been nominated as the pre-plan manager to negotiate with international funding agencies and coordinate with member nations. Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Iran, Bangladesh, Mynamar and the Maldives are the other countries involved in the project, which is supported by the World Meteorological Organisation, International Oceanographic Commission and UNESCO. The project involves setting up sea-based observational posts for data collection and development of more accurate computer models ( PTI Science Service , November 1-15, 1999).