August 31, 2023 Implementation of Emergency Communications Drill and Related Emergency Drills as Part of FY2023 Comprehensive Disaster-preparedness Drills

The Central Emergency Communication Conference (chaired by IMAGAWA Takuro, Director-General of the Telecommunications Bureau of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC)), together with the Regional Emergency Communication Conference in each area, will participate in an emergency communications drill and related emergency drills as part of 2023 comprehensive disaster-preparedness drills, and promote efforts to help ensure smooth communications in times of emergency.

Examples of major activities of Emergency Communications Conference in each participating area

1. Emergency communications drill

In cases where disasters disrupt commercial telecommunications lines and impede the transmission of information from affected areas, the drill will be conducted to ensure alternative means of communication. In anticipation of such a situation, this drill will be conducted to ensure means of communication from disaster-stricken areas to the Japanese government or prefectural governments by using private communications networks owned by organizations other than telecommunications carriers.

2. Drill of transporting mobile communications equipment to disaster areas

This drill is designed to practice using mobile communications equipment for disaster recovery. It assumes a scenario where a disaster disrupts the fixed communication networks of local governments.

3. Exhibition of communications equipment

The Central Emergency Communication Conference will conduct awareness-raising activities related to disaster prevention, including the exhibition of communications equipment useful for disaster recovery and victim support.

[Reference] Emergency Communication Conferences
Led by MIC, the Central and Regional Emergency Communication Conferences comprised of approximately 2,000 participants, including related ministries and agencies, local governments, designated public organizations, and radio station licensees involved in emergency communications.