ITU to focus on emergency communications

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU)’s World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC), which after 12 days of deliberations concluded here on Friday, adopted the Hyderabad Action Plan, outlining a road map to foster the global development of information and communication technology (ICT) networks and services over the next four years with more emphasis on emergency telecommunications.

Telecommunications and ICTs also play a critical role in disaster detection, early warning, preparedness, response and recovery. The Hyderabad declaration calls upon administrations to support polices and strategies that facilitate the use of telecommunications and ICTs for disaster management, in particular radiocommunications, said ITU secretary-general Hanadoun Toure.

“ICTs can save lives and help reduce the impact of natural disasters that could impede sustainable development. ITU has played a critical role in restoring telecommunications in disaster-hit areas around the world and was one of the early responders in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in Haiti earlier this year,” he added.

The Hyderabad action plan consists of a set of measures that seek to promote equitable and sustainable development of telecommunication and ICT networks and services worldwide. The five spheres identified include information and communication infrastructure and technology development; cyber security, ICT applications and IP-based network-related issues; enabling environment; capacity-building and digital inclusion; promotion of adaption to climate change in least developed countries.

“This Hyderabad action plan is an important and relevant tool for helping to bridge the digital divide. The WTDC-2010 calls upon the ITU member states, sector members and stakeholders to contribute towards the successful implementation of the Hyderabad action plan,” said PJ Thomas, WTDC chairman and secretary, Union telecommunications department.