Himachal plans to strengthen emergency communication via amateur radio (original) (raw)

The State Disaster Management Authority has devised a plan named “Alternative Communication during Emergencies”. (PTI File Image)

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Himachal plans to strengthen emergency communication via amateur radio

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To tackle the issue of communication breakdown during crises like earthquakes, floods, or landslides, the Himachal Pradesh government has devised a plan to promote amateur radio for strengthening communication networks in disaster-affected areas.

Remote regions in the hill state often get isolated during harsh winters due to heavy snowfall, or face disruptions caused by calamities like heavy monsoon rains, landslides, and floods. Relief operations too are affected. These areas suffer from information blackout when conventional communication fails, necessitating alternative emergency communication channels like amateur radio.

Keeping this in mind (where traditional systems like wire lines or cell phones fail), the State Disaster Management Authority has devised a plan named “Alternative Communication during Emergencies” to promote amateur and community radio for effective disaster communication.

In a press release, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted the importance of amateur radio, citing it as one of the most reliable means of communication during emergencies. The plan includes offering free training, conducting licencing examinations, providing subsidies for radio equipment, and establishing HAM radio clubs across educational institutions, he said.

Those interested in participating can access the application form via an online link and submit it to their nearest District Disaster Management Authority or State Disaster Management Authority.

The initiative aims to empower volunteers, government officials, and NGOs with the necessary skills and resources to bolster communication during crises, ensuring quicker and more efficient response systems in times of need, the release stated.