Pakistan has successfully launched its latest remote-sensing satellite, PRSS-II, on July 31, 2025, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in China, according to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).

The satellite is designed to strengthen the country’s capabilities in disaster management, urban planning, water monitoring, agriculture, climate observation, and forest protection.

Disaster Management and Rapid Response

The remote-sensing satellite will enhance Pakistan’s disaster response by quickly mapping damage after natural calamities such as floods or earthquakes. This capability will help authorities plan immediate relief efforts and support efficient recovery operations.

Urban Planning and Infrastructure Monitoring

The satellite provides data for monitoring land use, infrastructure development, and traffic patterns. It will assist city planners in designing sustainable urban environments, planning road networks, and tracking urban expansion.

Water Resource Management

PRSS-II will play a key role in monitoring Pakistan’s water resources. It can track water flow, detect floods, and help manage reservoirs, contributing to flood prediction and long-term water security.

Agricultural and Crop Monitoring

The satellite enables observation of farmlands to estimate crop yields and identify early signs of crop stress. This will support timely decision-making for improving agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.

Climate Change Observation

PRSS-II will help track environmental changes that are not visible to the human eye. Its applications include monitoring glaciers, tracking soil erosion, and recording long-term climatic trends, which are crucial for assessing the effects of climate change in Pakistan.

Forest and Deforestation Mapping

The satellite also contributes to environmental protection by detecting illegal logging, assessing forest health, and supporting conservation efforts against deforestation.

SUPARCO stated that the satellite marks a significant step toward enhancing Pakistan’s self-reliance in space-based monitoring and environmental management.

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