DoT and CDRI unveil roadmap to strengthen India’s telecom resilience

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in collaboration with the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), launched the Disaster Risk and Resilience Assessment Framework (DRRAF) report aimed at strengthening India's telecom sector against natural disasters. The report, part of a broader study across Assam, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and Gujarat, focuses on disaster risks and resilience strategies specific to telecom infrastructure. DoT coordinated with State Governments, Telecom Service Providers, and Infrastructure Providers to gather critical data. Secretary (Telecom) & Chairman, Digital Communications Commission (DCC), Dr. Neeraj Mittal, reaffirmed the commitment to ensuring seamless connectivity during and after disasters, aligning with the UN's ‘Early Warning for All by 2027’ initiative.  

The study offers a set of strategic recommendations, including improving infrastructure design to withstand disasters, developing a multi-hazard information repository, and enhancing financial safeguards for telecom operators. Key initiatives, such as real-time coordination with State Governments and the deployment of satellite-based communication, are already in progress. These efforts aim to enhance disaster preparedness and ensure the resilience of critical telecom infrastructure, enabling uninterrupted connectivity in times of crisis. The recommendations further emphasise cross-sector collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and enhancing emergency response mechanisms, strengthening India's telecom sector's capacity to respond effectively to natural calamities. 

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.