Expansion of Support for Disaster Broadcast Relay Equipment Installation
The Korea Communications Commission announced on the 9th that it will further expand support for the installation of disaster broadcasting relay facilities in tunnels, subway stations, and other locations this year.
The Framework Act on Broadcasting and Communications Development stipulates that owners and managers of roads, railways, and subways must install relay facilities in areas with poor broadcast reception to ensure smooth reception of disaster broadcasts.
Last year, the KCC provided technical support consulting to organizations such as the Korea Expressway Corporation to resolve reception issues and supported the installation of about 20 disaster broadcasting relay facilities. This year, the plan is to significantly expand this support to about 60 facilities.
With the recent frequent occurrence of various disasters and emergencies, it is necessary to expand disaster broadcasting relay facilities to ensure rapid delivery of disaster information and protection of human lives.
Last year, the KCC conducted a comprehensive survey on the reception status of FM radio and terrestrial digital multimedia broadcasting (terrestrial DMB) in approximately 4,960 tunnels and underground spaces nationwide. The results showed that FM radio reception was poor in about 3,380 locations (68.2% of the total), and terrestrial DMB reception was poor in about 3,400 locations (68.4%).
The KCC stated that despite the legal obligations of the Expressway Corporation, Korea Railroad Corporation, and others, the installation of relay facilities has been insufficient due to budget shortages and other issues.
Kim Hong-il, Chairman of the KCC, said, "We hope that the support project for installing disaster broadcasting relay facilities will serve as a catalyst for effective disaster response."
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