Harsh coastal weather conditions Airtel launches innovative telco system

FE Report Bharti Airtel Saturday announced the launch of a unique telecommunications based digital system that is designed to deliver vessel weather alerts and vessel tracking capabilities specifically for the fishermen community residing in Bangladesh's coastal areas. In an event held on the day Information Minister Abul Kalam Azad and other government high officials inaugurated the launch of this service by providing Airtel's unique tracking device to 50 fishing vessels. This initiative by Airtel was supported by CARE Bangladesh, Oxfam, Campaign for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods (CSRL) and Centre for Global Change (CGC). CARE Bangladesh addresses the underlying causes of poverty and promotes sustainable development models to empower and benefit the poorest and marginalized. CSRL is an NGO ensuring sustainable development through the reduction of poverty and vulnerability for the rural population. Oxfam is an international confederation working to find lasting solutions to poverty and injustice. On this occasion, Chris Tobit, CEO and Managing Director, Airtel Bangladesh Ltd said, "Our constant endeavor for excellence is acutely based on our vision for enriching lives of the people across all geographies of our operations. While Bangladesh's abundant coastline is of great pride to us and a source of livelihood for many --- we are all aware of the challenges we face as a country from our vulnerability to the grave effects of climate change. With the launch of Airtel's innovative digital telecommunications system for coastal weather conditions, we look forward to helping the fishermen community leverage technology towards their benefit and avert harsh consequences of climatic disturbances" As part of this initiative by Airtel, thousands of fishermen in Bangladesh will also be able to subscribe to weather alerts and forecasts --- thus allowing them avoid rough sea situations and sail safe of any natural disasters. Airtel's warning systems will also empower fishermen with advance information on when to avoid deep-sea fishing and avert any risky situations. Mr Abul Kalam Azad, MP, said, "In this land of cyclones and hurricanes, fast and reliable communications are the main instrument to combat natural calamities. Airtel's vessel tracking services will ensure about the news of upcoming storms, giving them early warning to take extra necessary safety measures and precautions at the right time. I appreciate Airtel's initiative that shall greatly support to reduce the mortality rate and the dangers that the fishermen face in the deep sea. This is also a significant step towards achieving digital Bangladesh that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has so brilliantly envisioned."