The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has given the green light for a new cell broadcast system designed to send disaster alerts swiftly. The system, to be rolled out by two leading mobile operators, Advanced Info Services (AIS) and True Corporation, aims to provide timely warnings to residents in affected areas without requiring any special apps.

 

AIS and True Corporation successfully trialled the technology earlier this year, demonstrating its efficacy in delivering text messages and audible alerts directly to mobile phones within the radius of their cell towers.

 

Trairat Viriyasirikul, acting secretary-general of the NBTC, announced that both companies are expanding their network infrastructure. Additional cell towers are being installed and should be operational by the fourth quarter of the year, enhancing coverage for disaster alerts.

 

To further encourage participation, the NBTC has decided to offer financial incentives to AIS and True. For the next three years, these companies will benefit from reduced contributions to their Universal Service Obligations.

 

While the exact figures remain undisclosed, this move is expected to significantly lower operational costs, providing a win-win scenario for the operators and the public.

Simultaneously, the NBTC is in talks with the state-run National Telecom company, which has proposed a similar alert system. Approval is pending as the commission awaits more detailed plans.

 

Building on mobile alerts, the NBTC has also mapped out plans to test an emergency warning system through digital terrestrial television. The pilot will be conducted via the Royal Thai Army's Channel 5, aiming to reach another segment of the population that might be unaffected by mobile alerts, reported NNT.

 

This multi-platform approach is designed to enhance public safety, ensuring that emergency information is accessible to as many people as possible.

 

With these initiatives, the NBTC aims to bolster Thailand's preparedness and responsiveness to natural disasters, making sure that critical information reaches the public promptly and effectively.

 

Picture: NNT

 

-- 2024-09-19

 

 

Good... hopefully many will benefit from storm warnings and flash floods.

Better check your phone for explosives.