November 6, 2006

Deployment of Mobile Communications Equipment for Countermeasures against Natural Disasters
-- Preparation of COAM mobile communications systems effective upon disasters --

In light of the significance of information and communications in cases of disasters, pursuant to the "Disaster Prevention Basic Plan," etc., MIC has been promoting preparation of systems for stockpiling/procurement of communications equipment, etc.; this effort is aimed at ensuring a means of communications for prevention of disasters and for mitigation of damages caused by disasters, in case such disasters could not be prevented.
As part of such efforts, MIC has started a scheme for renting mobile communications equipment free of charge to local public entities and people involved in post-disaster restoration.
MIC has established two depots in Tokyo and Osaka, where mobile communications equipment are maintained and managed. In cases of emergencies such as earthquake, etc., upon request from disaster countermeasures headquarters of local public entities, etc., MIC will rent mobile communications equipment free of charge to local public entities and people involved in post-disaster restoration. Through such a system, MIC has completed a scheme to ensure an indispensable means of communications for i1) collecting information on disaster-stricken areas at an initial stage, and ii2) implementing emergency measures for restoration in a prompt and smooth manner.
For instance, upon request for renting equipment from disaster countermeasures headquarters of local public entities, etc., MIC will, through entrusted private-sector companies, deliver mobile communications equipment to disaster-stricken areas within 48 hours.
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For further information about this press release, please fill in the inquiry form and submit it to MIC on the website
http://www.soumu.go.jp/joho_tsusin/eng/contact.html
International Policy Division,
International Affairs Department
Telecommunications Bureau, MIC
TEL: +81-3-5253-5920 / FAX: +81-3-5253-5924