The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is advancing the development of a Cell Broadcast emergency alert system, aiming to enhance safety and mitigate risks for people across Thailand during emergencies. The system is expected to be fully operational by mid-2025.
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Cell Broadcast is a technology that sends emergency alert messages through mobile networks. Messages are automatically delivered to all mobile phones within a designated area, without the need for registration or additional applications. This enables rapid and widespread alerts to the public during various emergencies, such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other unrest.
True Corporation Pioneers with First Full-Scale Cell Broadcast Test in Thailand
True Corporation, a leading telecommunications provider in Thailand, demonstrated the readiness of the Cell Broadcast emergency alert system by conducting a “LIVE – Cell Broadcast Service” test. The test involved sending actual alerts through live network signals to TrueMove H and dtac mobile users in the area, marking the first real-world test of the system in Thailand. The event took place on July 3, 2024, at True Tower Ratchadaphisek, with Mr. Prasert Chanthararuangthong, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, and Prof. Dr. Sorn Boonbaichaiyapruck, Chairman of the NBTC, in attendance.
Mr. Manat Manavutiveth, CEO of True Corporation, stated, “We are proud to have developed and successfully tested the Cell Broadcast Service (CBS), an internationally recognized emergency alert system that can simultaneously send alerts to all mobile users, both Thai and foreign tourists, within a risk area.”
Collaboration Across Sectors
This project involves collaboration from various sectors, including the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), the Ministry of Interior, and all three mobile network operators. The system test and live demonstration were conducted on July 3, 2024, at True Tower.
Prof. Dr. Sorn Boonbaichaiyapruck, Chairman of the NBTC, emphasized, “Thailand has experienced several unexpected events, including mall shootings and natural disasters. The Cell Broadcast system will be a crucial tool in alerting the public to dangers and enabling them to respond appropriately, reducing injuries and damage to life and property.” He further stressed that this system is a public service that the government must support to ensure public access to vital information for survival during emergencies.
Benefits for the Public
- Increased Safety: Rapid and accurate alerts will enable people to prepare and respond to emergencies promptly.
- Reduced Risk: Receiving accurate and timely information will reduce the risk of injury and death during emergencies.
- Confidence: Having an effective alert system will instill confidence in the public that they will be cared for and protected in times of crisis.
While Cell Broadcast is a public service, it has the potential to generate long-term business value for mobile operators,such as increased customer loyalty, positive brand image, and opportunities to develop new alert-related services.
The NBTC is currently coordinating with relevant agencies to complete the necessary procedures before the Cell Broadcast system can be fully operational by mid-2025.
With collaboration from all sectors, the development of the Cell Broadcast emergency alert system is a significant step in enhancing safety and reducing risks for all Thai citizens.
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