Humanitarian Comms

Hurricane Katrina exposed every possible obstacle that could arise from incompatible or sub-standard telecoms equipment and networks. Many of the short-fallings - which serve as a lesson for telecoms in the emerging markets - are discussed by Michael Schwartz.

The mobile phone has become the device most people turn to in an emergency. Mobile networks experience huge increases in traffic immediately following a disaster and high-levels of demand continue for many days afterwards.

Softscape has introduced an emergency management system designed to ensure disaster victims receive rapid assistance. Its web-based platform is open to government agencies as they direct both citizens and agency workers through their crisis. Dave Watkins, founder and CEO, Softscape, explains the requirements that any such system must meet.

Recent events have shown just how critical a part good communications play during disasters. Developing Telecoms welcomes Nikesh Patel, business manager for Motorola's Government and Enterprise Mobility Solutions (GEMS) sector. He explains how seamless mobile wireless broadband solutions optimise emergency response.

Five major China water resource utilities are establishing critical, real-time flood control monitoring and drought relief systems to protect against the loss of life from the catastrophic floods that hit China each year during the annual rainy season.