Phuket succuessfully tests new mobile emergency alert system
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and the Phuket Provincial Office, successfully trialled the Cell Broadcast mobile emergency warning system.
The trial, conducted yesterday, November 19, at the Chao Fah Meeting Room in Phuket Provincial Hall, was led by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and witnessed by key figures, including Nattapol Natthasomboon, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), and Trairat Viriyasirakul, Acting Secretary-General of the NBTC.
Executives from major mobile operators such as Advanced Wireless Network Co Ltd, True Move H Universal Communication Co Ltd, and National Telecom Plc were also present to observe the trial.
The Cell Broadcast system, developed collaboratively by the MDES, uses the Cell Broadcast Service (CBS) to send warning messages in the form of Short Message Service (SMS) to people and tourists in risk-prone areas, said Vice Governor Adul.
“Designed to warn residents and tourists of potential dangers, the system promises to improve safety and response times during emergencies.”
This initiative marks an essential step in enhancing mobile emergency alert systems, allowing officials to send location-specific warnings to individuals in at-risk areas. The service supports Android 11 and iOS 10 or newer smartphones, ensuring timely alerts in cases of natural disasters or emergencies. Phuket was chosen as the first province to test the system, aligning with its status as a prominent tourist destination.
The trial simulated various scenarios, demonstrating the system’s effectiveness in enhancing public safety and boosting confidence among residents and visitors. Officials emphasised the system’s potential to significantly improve emergency response.
“This initiative showcases the commitment of our government and telecom providers to safeguarding lives. Phuket is proud to be the pioneering province for this trial, which reinforces our image as a leader in disaster preparedness and response.”
Following the successful trial, the Cell Broadcast system is set to launch in selected areas by the second quarter of 2025, with plans for nationwide expansion. Efforts are underway to extend coverage to remote regions, ensuring comprehensive protection for citizens and tourists across Thailand.
The Cell Broadcast initiative forms part of a broader disaster warning system ordered by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, following a fatal landslide in Kata in August that claimed 13 lives.
In early September, Governor Sophon highlighted the collaboration between the Department of Mineral Resources and the NBTC to monitor and issue disaster warnings for flash floods and landslides via mobile phone networks.
An official report, celebrating the successful trial, did not mention any progress by the Department of Mineral Resources in developing a system to inform the Cell Broadcast of impending disasters such as landslides, reported Phuket News.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Bangkok Post highlights True Corporation’s collaboration on a live Cell Broadcast Service simulation in Phuket aimed at enhancing emergency alerts for tourists, showcasing the importance of safety and multi-sector teamwork. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
How might the Cell Broadcast system change emergency responses in Thailand?
It could revolutionise emergency responses by providing timely, location-specific alerts, improving safety and potentially saving lives during disasters.
Why was Phuket chosen as the first province to trial the Cell Broadcast system?
Phuket’s status as a major tourist destination makes it an ideal location to test the system’s effectiveness in alerting residents and visitors.
What if the Cell Broadcast system fails during an actual emergency?
Officials might need alternative communication strategies to ensure public safety, highlighting the importance of backup systems in disaster management.
What challenges could arise in extending the Cell Broadcast system to remote areas?
Infrastructure limitations and varying network coverage might hinder timely alerts, requiring innovative solutions to ensure comprehensive protection.
How does the trial of the Cell Broadcast system reflect Thailand’s commitment to digital innovation?
It underscores the integration of advanced technology in public safety initiatives, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to disaster preparedness.
