GSMA extends funding to disaster response drone system for PRC
The GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association), the organization representing the world’s mobile operators, has extended funding to a project of leading local telecoms firm Smart Communications and Nokia to set up a disaster response drone system for the Philippine Red Cross (PRC).
This after the GSMA Disaster Response Innovation Fund has selected the Nokia Saving Lives drone project, which will operate on Smart’s frequencies during times of emergency, as one of their grantees.
The Nokia Saving Lives program seeks to provide communications technology and technical assistance to emergency response teams.
In the Philippines, Smart will provide high-speed connectivity for the drone-based system to help boost the disaster response efforts of the PRC.
The system consists of drones, a portable data center, a mobile broadband network, and applications like video streaming, gas sensing, mapping, and analytics, which can help Red Cross responders assess current status of lifelines and analyze immediate needs and gaps. This will enable Red Cross to provide emergency assistance to communities in more timely, effective and efficient ways.
Using Smart’s high-speed LTE connectivity and the portable Nokia Ultra Compact Network, the system can also create a secure communication between drones, other equipment, and rescue team members.
The initiative was presented to the delegates of the GSMA Humanitarian Connectivity Charter (HCC) Regional Workshop for Asia-Pacific during a visit to the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation emergency operations center.
Representatives from the GSMA and other telecommunications providers all over Asia attended the HCC meeting, held recently in Angeles, Pampanga.
“We are proud to present this collaboration with our colleagues here in Asia and the rest of the world,” said PLDT and Smart public affairs head Ramon Isberto. “Disaster preparedness is one of our priority advocacies. At Smart, we provide continuous network service, as well as multi-platform technology and training, as we work with the government and other partners. We believe our communications support for the drones will help enhance disaster response and, ultimately, save lives.”
“The GSMA Disaster Response Innovation Fund is proud to be supporting projects that use mobile technology to assist and empower individuals or communities who are building their resilience to natural disasters, or who are affected by humanitarian emergencies,” said Kyla Reid, head of digital identity and mobile for humanitarian innovation at the GSMA.
“This project from Nokia and Smart Communications is an excellent example of collaboration and highlights the positive role the private sector can play in strengthening response in the face of disaster,” Reid said.