Patna: In the aftermath of the recent disaster in Nepal and growing concerns over communication failures during floods, Bihar is moving towards strengthening its emergency communication infrastructure by integrating 4G and 5G networks with satellite-based non-terrestrial networks (NTN).
An official of the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority (BSDMA) said the Authority had been proposing and initiating measures in this direction even before the recent Nepal incident.
The proposed system is intended to provide a communication backup when conventional mobile and internet networks become unavailable during floods and other natural disasters.
Satellite network to back up mobile connectivity
Mobile towers and terrestrial communication systems can be disrupted during floods, earthquakes, cyclones and other emergencies. Power failures, damage to infrastructure or the loss of connectivity to towers can result in widespread disruption of mobile and internet services.
Under the proposed approach, non-terrestrial networks using satellite-based connectivity could complement existing 4G and 5G infrastructure and help maintain communication in affected areas.
Such a system could prove particularly useful in Bihar’s flood-prone districts, where disruption of communication can complicate relief and rescue operations.
ISRO, NRSC and telecom department may coordinate
The Disaster Management Authority has proposed formal coordination among the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Telecommunications for developing the system.
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) could also be brought into the proposed coordination mechanism.
The objective is to create a more robust and reliable communication network capable of functioning even when conventional infrastructure is damaged.
Critical for relief and rescue operations
Maintaining communication during a disaster is essential for coordination between the administration, police, health authorities and relief and rescue teams.
A satellite-backed network could also help ensure that the public remains connected with government agencies in areas where terrestrial communication infrastructure has been disrupted.
The Authority has urged District Magistrates in flood-affected areas to consider the proposal seriously and provide their suggestions on strengthening disaster-time communication systems.
The initiative is aimed at creating an additional layer of connectivity that can support Bihar’s disaster response system when floods or other emergencies put conventional communication infrastructure under pressure.
