DoT finalizes Emergency Communication Plan

Department of Telecom. (DoT) has finalised a scheme to ensure emergency
communication during disaster and natural calamities. Under the scheme,
emergency communication vans with self-contained infrastructure can reach the
affected area immediately. The emergency communication system in the van is to
be equipped with WLL/Cellular mobile equipment, telephone exchanges and
Microwave/Satellite system. To meet power disruption during emergency, the
system is to be equipped with its own power supply system through a number of
batteries.

Under this scheme, a Standing Disaster Management Committee at the Central,
Circle and other areas with full financial powers is to be set up. In the Circle
Level Committee, a member from the Amateur Radio (HAM) will also be associated.
The Department is going to start two pilot projects based on the scheme to
assess the efficacy of the emergency response system soon. The scheme has been
drafted by a Committee set up by the Department in Feb. this year following the
Gujarat earthquake of January 26