Wi-Fi Rescue Boats Boost Disaster Response in Flood-Hit Areas

[webfact]

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Friends in Need (of “PA”) Volunteers Foundation, under the Thai Red Cross Society, has received eight “Wi-Fi Rescue Boats” from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI). Developed by Thai academics, these boats provide light, power, and internet connectivity during emergencies, enhancing flood response efforts. They will be distributed to disaster alert networks in eight communities across seven provinces.

 

The “Wi-Fi Rescue Boats” are flat-bottomed vessels capable of operating in shallow waters and carrying up to 40 kilograms. Equipped with solar-powered Wi-Fi transmitters, they provide internet access for up to six hours and can charge multiple mobile devices.

 

The boats feature sirens, loudspeakers, and live-stream cameras facilitating real-time monitoring during emergencies. The technology addresses power outages and communication challenges often encountered in flood-affected areas.

The donation was officially handed over on October 17 during a ceremony held at MHESI headquarters.

 

The boats will be used by the foundation’s networks in provinces, including Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Chaiyaphum, and Phatthalung, to support disaster relief and recovery.

 

The foundation, established under the initiative of Princess Soamsawali and Princess Bajrakitiyabha, provides comprehensive support during floods and other natural disasters.

 

Developed in collaboration with several MHESI-affiliated agencies, including Princess of Naradhiwas University and the Science, Research and Innovation Promotion Fund, the boats are expected to greatly enhance safety and quality of life for flood victims in some of Thailand’s most vulnerable regions.

 

by Krajangwit Johjit

 

Source: NNT 

-- 2024-10-21

 

 

[happysoul]

True that when you've had 1.5m of mudd water in your house, the first thing you want is wifi access. 8 boats for 7 provinces, one by province ? If any usefull, what is the range of the boat for providing provisional communication ?

 

By the way, the celular network went down when the floods occured ? I was in constant contact with my friends in CM when it happened 2 weeks ago.

 

Again some bling bling communication to show how the powers take care of people. In real it's just some nonsense useless move. Bet that in 1 year those boats are roting in some governement storage. But the ceremony was nice.

 

Going back to my coffee