Bangkok: The Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has acknowledged that the initial testing phase of the Cell Broadcast System (CBS) has resulted in signal overflow into nearby areas. Despite this, users of 2G and 3G networks have been assured that they will receive warning SMS messages within 10 minutes alongside the CBS alerts. The DDPM plans to complete a major nationwide system test by July.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phasakorn Boonyalak, the Director-General of the DDPM, explained in an interview that the initial test involved simulating a flood situation within an indoor environment, targeting five specific locations: Chiang Rai Provincial Hall, Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Hall, Suphan Buri Provincial Hall, Songkhla Provincial Hall, and the Chaeng Watthana Government Complex. The goal was to assess the service provider's coverage area efficiency, which revealed that the signal extended slightly beyond the intended 1.5-kilometer radius.
Mr. Phasakorn noted that the main concern with the system's first-day trial was the potential shock to individuals unfamiliar with the warning sound, despite prior announcements. He assured that the highly efficient transmission system supports updated Android and iOS devices. For the approximately 3 million users on 2G and 3G networks, warning messages will be sent via SMS within 10 minutes. The simultaneous use of CBS and SMS aims to ensure comprehensive public awareness. The full implementation of the Cell Broadcast system is expected by July, positioning Thailand as having a warning system on par with global standards.
In response to questions about the system's efficiency during sudden events like flash floods, Mr. Phasakorn highlighted the established Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). The National Disaster Warning Center, under the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act of 2007, plays a central role in disaster management and public warnings, with information sourced from agencies like the Meteorological Department and the Earthquake Watch Division. Other contributing agencies include the Department of Mineral Resources, Department of Water Resources, and the Royal Irrigation Department, all of which provide critical data to the DDPM for analysis and dissemination.
Regarding the nationwide warning level test, Mr. Phasakorn stated that after finalizing all three test levels and confirming system readiness, the DDPM will connect its systems with the Cell Broadcast Center, comprising three service providers. Initial small-scale tests involved sending messages via Line for provider distribution. Once the system is fully operational, the DDPM will directly send alerts, reducing steps for service providers, and ensuring rapid dissemination within one minute.
Finally, Mr. Phasakorn indicated that a final large-scale nationwide system test is anticipated before July, following the completion of the current testing process.