It’s surprising that the mainstream media isn’t talking about the Thai Prime Minister’s concerns. It’s really important for the media to highlight these serious issues and make sure that the authorities are responsible for keeping the public safe and healthy during crises.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has raised concerns regarding the failures in the SMS alert system and transport disruptions following a recent earthquake. This situation has led to increased public anxiety, prompting the Prime Minister to seek immediate explanations from officials responsible for these systems.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has called for immediate explanations regarding the delays in sending SMS alerts to the public following the recent earthquake, as concerns among the public continue to grow.
During a high-level meeting held on 29th March to discuss the repercussions of the earthquake that originated in Myanmar and affected several provinces in Thailand, Paetongtarn expressed significant worry about the perceived inefficiency of the emergency communication systems.
“When the earthquake occurred at 13:20, what information should have been promptly communicated to the public?” she inquired, directly addressing officials from the National Disaster Warning Centre and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM). “Was sending an SMS alert the correct initial response? If so, what caused the delay, and who is responsible?”
DDPM Director-General Passakorn Bunyalak clarified that while the Meteorological Department tracks seismic activity, earthquakes are unpredictable by nature. He noted that the first SMS alert was sent to the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) at 14:42, with public messages following at 14:44.
However, the NBTC acknowledged limitations in their existing system, which restricts the number of messages that can be sent in a single batch, resulting in considerable delays in reaching the broader population.
Paetongtarn expressed her dissatisfaction with the lack of a Cell Broadcast (CBC) system, which would allow for simultaneous mass messaging. “The SMS delivery was excessively slow and insufficient,” she remarked. “This is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. We must investigate all possible options to enhance our communication capabilities, including fostering greater collaboration with mobile operators.”
Earthquake Alert System in Thailand
Thailand has a comprehensive earthquake monitoring and alert system in place. The system includes ground acceleration monitoring stations, crustal movement measurement stations, and sea level measurement stations installed across the country. These stations continuously monitor and provide information related to earthquake hazards 24 hours a day. They are designed to detect anomalies and immediately send alerts to relevant authorities in the event of a major earthquake.
Thailand has relatively few earthquakes. Based on data from the past 55 years and earthquake archive back to 1900, there are about 213 quakes on average per year in Thailand. However, Thailand has had at least 4 quakes above magnitude 6 since 2000, which suggests that larger earthquakes of this size occur infrequently, probably on average approximately every 5 to 10 years.
Thailand Earthquake Warning Fail
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, causing extensive damage and over 1,644 deaths, with significant impacts felt in Thailand, including the collapse of a high-rise building in Bangkok.234 +1 Despite the severe impact, there is no specific mention in the provided context about the performance of Thailand’s earthquake early warning systems.
SMS System Failures
Delayed Alerts: The primary issue at hand is the delay in sending out SMS alerts to inform the public about the earthquake. Such alerts are crucial for ensuring public safety and preparedness during emergencies.
- Infrastructure Assessment: The Prime Minister’s demand for explanations suggests that there may be underlying issues within the communication infrastructure that need addressing. This could include outdated technology, lack of proper maintenance, or insufficient training for personnel responsible for managing these systems.
- Public Trust: The failure to provide timely information can erode public trust in government agencies tasked with disaster management and response. It is essential for officials to communicate effectively during crises to maintain confidence among citizens.
Have there been past cases of earthquake warning failures in Thailand?
Yes, there have been previous instances of earthquake warning failures in Thailand.
One notable example occurred during the catastrophic tsunami event on December 26, 2004, which was triggered by a massive earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. Although the Thai Meteorological Department registered the earthquake soon after it occurred, they did not issue a tsunami warning. Officials were attending a seminar at the time and convened an emergency meeting to discuss the situation. However, they ultimately decided against issuing a warning due to concerns about potential repercussions from both government and business if the warning turned out to be unnecessary. This decision resulted in many people being caught unaware when the tsunami struck Thailand’s coastline.
Projects Funded by Bill Gates Enhancing Early Warning Systems for Disasters in Thailand
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has committed several grants aimed at enhancing disaster resilience in Thailand, particularly through emergency response initiatives. Below are specific projects funded by the foundation that focus on disaster resilience:
1. Emergency Response Grants
Grant Committed in October 2019
- Amount: $3,699,450
- Duration: 47 months
- Purpose: This grant was allocated to support emergency response efforts in Asia, specifically targeting rapid-onset natural disasters and complex emergencies. The funding is intended to bolster local capacities to respond effectively to disasters, thereby enhancing community resilience.
Grant Committed in May 2020
- Amount: $450,044
- Duration: 20 months
- Purpose: Similar to the previous grant, this funding focuses on emergency response and research opportunities related to disaster resilience. It aims to improve preparedness and response mechanisms within affected communities.
Grant Committed in September 2023
- Amount: $1,498,918
- Duration: 36 months
- Purpose: This recent grant continues the foundation’s commitment to emergency response initiatives in Thailand. It emphasizes building local capacities for disaster management and improving overall community resilience against future emergencies.
2. Focus on Early Warning Systems
The foundation emphasizes the importance of developing robust early warning systems that can effectively predict and mitigate the impacts of natural disasters. This includes investing in technology and infrastructure that allow for timely alerts to communities at risk from events such as floods, storms, and other climate-related hazards.
3. Collaboration with Local Authorities
Collaborations with local governments and organizations are crucial for implementing these projects effectively. The Gates Foundation often partners with local entities to ensure that the solutions developed are tailored to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of communities in Thailand.
4. Integration with Broader Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies
The projects funded by the Gates Foundation align with international frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, which aims to reduce disaster risk through comprehensive planning and community engagement. This integration ensures that early warning systems are not standalone efforts but part of a larger strategy to enhance resilience against disasters.
Ref:
- Gates Foundation Grant Information
- Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction[https://www.undrr.org]
The information indicates that the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has been involved in various initiatives related to disaster management and resilience. One specific grant mentioned is from Tulane University, which received a $5 million grant aimed at establishing education and development programs for disaster resilience.
The funding for disaster management alerts in Thailand began with a grant awarded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in January 2012.
Bill Gates reflects on the future of nuclear power in the aftermath of the Fukushima disaster in Japan. “Software simulation changes the game,” argues Gates, highlighting the advantage of being able to virtually test new designs before building them.
Vantem, a Startup Founded by Bill Gates, is Building Cost-Effective Net Zero Housing
Vantem is a startup construction company manufacturing high-efficiency, net-zero homes at competitive costs and low embodied carbon. The company recently raised a Series A round of investment from the Bill Gates-founded firm Breakthrough Energy Ventures. Net-zero homes, buildings that produce as much energy as they use, are typically cheaper to own than standard housing. Still, they often involve high construction costs since they require advanced building technologies and engineering. Vantem aims to change this dynamic by employing modular construction technology
net-zero homes [ https://www.archdaily.com/977740/what-is-net-zero-architecture]
Breakthrough Energy Ventures [https://www.breakthroughenergy.org/?utm_medium=website&utm_source=archdaily.com]
Ref: https://www.archdaily.com/985384/vantem-a-startup-founded-by-gates-is-building-cost-effective-net-zero-housing
Elite groups capitalize on disaster management during economic downturns through several strategic mechanisms that exploit vulnerabilities in the system.
1. Access to Resources and Information
Elite groups often have privileged access to critical resources, information, and networks that allow them to navigate disaster management more effectively than average citizens or smaller organizations. This access enables them to secure funding, contracts, and resources that are not available to others.
2. Influence Over Policy and Decision-Making
Wealthy individuals and corporations frequently exert significant influence over public policy and decision-making processes. They can lobby for favorable regulations or disaster relief measures that benefit their interests, ensuring that government responses align with their business objectives. This influence can lead to policies that prioritize elite interests over those of marginalized communities.
3. Contracting Opportunities
During disasters, governments often allocate substantial funds for recovery efforts, infrastructure rebuilding, and emergency services. Elite groups, particularly large corporations with established connections in government, can secure lucrative contracts for these services. This creates a cycle where economic downturns lead to increased spending on disaster management, which disproportionately benefits those already in power.
4. Market Manipulation
Economic downturns can create opportunities for elite groups to manipulate markets by acquiring distressed assets at lower prices during disasters or crises. For example, real estate investments may become more attractive as property values drop due to disasters, allowing elites to purchase properties cheaply and profit from future recovery.
5. Philanthropic Initiatives
Many elite individuals engage in philanthropic efforts during disasters as a means of enhancing their public image while simultaneously maintaining control over how aid is distributed. By positioning themselves as benefactors, they can shape the narrative around disaster response and recovery while also directing resources toward initiatives that align with their interests.
6. Exploitation of Labor Markets
Disasters often disrupt local economies and labor markets, leading to increased unemployment and vulnerability among workers. Elite groups may take advantage of this situation by hiring workers at lower wages or implementing less favorable working conditions under the guise of providing employment opportunities during recovery efforts.
Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, often create urgent needs for relief and recovery. Unfortunately, these situations can also present opportunities for exploitation by elites who may seek to profit from the chaos. This exploitation can take various forms, including corruption, misallocation of resources, and manipulation of aid.
Forms of Exploitation
1. Corruption in Aid Distribution
One of the most significant ways elites exploit disaster situations is through corruption in the distribution of aid. This can occur when:
- Bribery: Officials may accept bribes to divert funds or resources meant for disaster relief to personal accounts or private enterprises.
- Fraudulent Contracts: Elites may secure contracts for reconstruction or supply provisions that are inflated in cost or unnecessary, siphoning off funds that should go to genuine recovery efforts.
2. Price Gouging
In the aftermath of a disaster like an earthquake, essential goods such as food, water, and medical supplies become scarce. Elites may engage in price gouging by:
- Inflating Prices: Charging exorbitant prices for basic necessities during times of crisis.
- Hoarding Supplies: Withholding supplies to create artificial scarcity and drive up prices further.
3. Land Grabs
Disasters often displace communities and create opportunities for land acquisition by elites:
- Acquisition of Displaced Land: Wealthy individuals or corporations may purchase land at a fraction of its value from desperate sellers who need quick cash after losing their homes.
- Development Projects: Post-disaster reconstruction projects can be manipulated to favor elite interests over community needs, leading to gentrification and displacement.
4. Manipulation of Relief Efforts
Elites may manipulate relief efforts to enhance their own power or influence:
- Control Over NGOs: Some elites may establish or control non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that claim to provide aid but primarily serve their interests.
- Political Leverage: By positioning themselves as key figures in relief efforts, they can gain political capital and influence decision-making processes.
5. Exploitation of Labor
In the rebuilding phase following a disaster:
- Underpayment: Workers involved in reconstruction may be underpaid or exploited due to the high demand for labor and lack of oversight.
- Unsafe Working Conditions: Elites might prioritize profit over safety standards, putting workers at risk while maximizing their own financial returns.
Elite networks employ several tactics to influence disaster relief funding allocations, including strategic lobbying, forming coalitions, leveraging media narratives, utilizing data and research, and engaging in direct advocacy with policymakers.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of Tactics
- Strategic Lobbying: Elite networks often engage professional lobbyists who have established relationships with key decision-makers in government. These lobbyists advocate for specific funding priorities that align with the interests of their clients or member organizations. By providing information, expertise, and persuasive arguments, they can effectively sway legislators to allocate funds in a manner that benefits their network.
- Forming Coalitions: By creating coalitions with other organizations that share similar goals, elite networks can amplify their voice and increase their influence. These coalitions may include non-profits, businesses, and community groups that collectively advocate for certain disaster relief initiatives. The combined resources and expertise of these groups can lead to more effective lobbying efforts.
- Leveraging Media Narratives: Elite networks often utilize media campaigns to shape public perception around disaster relief needs. By framing issues in a way that resonates with the public or highlights urgent needs following disasters, they can create pressure on policymakers to respond favorably to their funding requests.
- Utilizing Data and Research: Access to comprehensive data and research allows elite networks to present compelling evidence supporting their funding proposals. This includes statistical analyses demonstrating the impact of disasters on specific communities or sectors, which can be used to justify increased funding allocations.
- Engaging in Direct Advocacy: Members of elite networks frequently engage directly with policymakers through meetings, briefings, and public testimony at hearings. This direct engagement allows them to articulate their positions clearly and personally persuade decision-makers about the importance of specific funding allocations.
- Building Relationships with Key Stakeholders: Establishing long-term relationships with influential stakeholders—such as government officials, agency leaders, and other power brokers—enables elite networks to gain insights into the political landscape and anticipate funding opportunities or challenges.
- Participating in Public Consultations: Many governmental bodies hold consultations regarding disaster relief policies and funding strategies. Elite networks often participate actively in these processes to ensure their perspectives are included in policy discussions.
- Mobilizing Grassroots Support: While elite networks are often associated with top-down approaches, they also mobilize grassroots support by encouraging community members affected by disasters to voice their needs directly to policymakers. This grassroots pressure can enhance the legitimacy of their requests for funding.
By employing these tactics collectively or individually, elite networks significantly influence how disaster relief funds are allocated at various levels of government.
Additional Information:
Below are some key areas where Gates has directed his funding:
The following table lists the top receiving organizations to which the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has committed funding, between 2009 and 2015. The table again only includes grants recorded in the Gates Foundation’s IATI publications.
The following table lists the top receiving organizations to which the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has committed funding, between 2009 and 2015. The table again only includes grants recorded in the Gates Foundation’s IATI publications.[76]
As of 31 December 2024, according to documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the trust owned the following investments (almost 200 million shares) worth a total of over $42 billion:[81]
As of 31 December 2024, according to documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the trust owned the following investments (almost 200 million shares) worth a total of over $42 billion
| Company | Shares | Value | Portfolio | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft | 28,457,247 | $11,994,730,000 | 28.55% | 84.83% |
| Berkshire Hathaway (Class B) | 19,655,024 | $8,909,229,000 | 21.20% | |
| Waste Management | 32,234,344 | $6,504,568,000 | 15.48% | |
| Canadian National Railway | 54,826,786 | $5,565,467,000 | 13.25% | |
| Caterpillar Inc. | 7,353,614 | $2,667,597,000 | 6.35% | |
| John Deere | 3,557,378 | $1,507,261,000 | 3.59% | 11.30% |
| Ecolab | 5,218,044 | $1,222,692,000 | 2.91% | |
| Walmart | 9,090,477 | $821,325,000 | 1.95% | |
| FedEx | 2,534,362 | $712,992,000 | 1.70% | |
| Coca-Cola FEMSA | 6,214,719 | $484,064,000 | 1.15% | |
| Waste Connections | 2,149,175 | $368,755,000 | 0.88% | 3.87% |
| Coupang | 9,248,045 | $203,272,000 | 0.48% | |
| Schrödinger | 6,981,664 | $134,676,000 | 0.32% | |
| Madison Square Garden Sports | 592,406 | $133,694,000 | 0.32% | |
| Crown Castle | 1,420,072 | $128,886,000 | 0.31% | |
| Paccar | 1,000,000 | $104,020,000 | 0.25% | |
| McDonald’s | 334,900 | $97,084,000 | 0.23% | |
| United Parcel Service | 755,089 | $95,217,000 | 0.23% | |
| Danaher | 373,000 | $85,622,000 | 0.20% | |
| AB InBev | 1,703,000 | $85,269,000 | 0.20% | |
| Kraft Heinz | 2,622,600 | $80,540,000 | 0.19% | |
| Hormel Foods | 2,195,290 | $68,866,000 | 0.16% | |
| On Holding | 500,000 | $27,385,000 | 0.07% | |
| Veralto | 124,333 | $12,663,000 | 0.03% | |
| 24 companies | 199,141,569 | $42,015,874,000 | 100% | 100% |
Impact of Earthquakes on Internet Connectivity
Internet connectivity often fails during and after earthquakes due to several factors, including damage to infrastructure, power outages, and overwhelming demand on communication networks. It’s important not to rely completely on digital systems because internet connections can break down during earthquakes.
Infrastructure Damage
When an earthquake occurs, the physical infrastructure that supports internet connectivity can be severely damaged. This includes:
- Cell Towers: Cell towers are vulnerable to structural damage from the shaking and can be knocked down or rendered inoperable. In a significant earthquake, many towers may fail, leading to widespread loss of cellular service.
- Cables and Connections: Both aerial and underground cables can be damaged. Aerial cables are particularly susceptible to falling trees or debris, while underground cables may suffer from flooding or ground movement.
Power Outages
Earthquakes often cause power outages that affect not only homes but also critical infrastructure like data centers and cell towers:
- Sustained Power Loss: Many telecommunications facilities rely on electricity to operate. If power is lost for an extended period, these facilities cannot function, resulting in a complete loss of service.
- Backup Systems: While some systems have backup generators, they may not last long enough during prolonged outages. For instance, during emergencies like wildfires in California, cell networks have been unreliable due to power cuts.
Network Congestion
Even if some services remain operational after an earthquake, the demand for communication can overwhelm available resources:
- High Traffic Volume: Immediately following an earthquake, there is typically a surge in calls and messages as people try to contact loved ones or emergency services. This sudden spike can lead to network congestion where the system becomes overloaded and unable to process additional requests.
- Limited Capacity: Studies indicate that in severe scenarios (like a magnitude 7 quake), areas closest to the epicenter might only provide about 7% of the normal voice and data service capacity. This situation mirrors failures seen during other major disasters.
Source:
- “Major California earthquake would knock out cell service…” [https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-10-21/california-earthquake-could-cut-off-communications-for-weeks]
- “Protecting your broadband network: How to prepare for natural disasters” [https://www.ppc-online.com/blog/protecting-your-broadband-network-how-to-prepare-for-natural-disasters]
- “How would a big California earthquake affect communications?” [https://www.govtech.com/news/how-would-a-big-california-earthquake-affect-communications]
- “Earthquakes Pose a Serious Risk to Internet Cellular Infrastructure” [https://www.govtech.com/fs/news/Earthquakes-Pose-a-Serious-Risk-to-Internet-Cellular-Infrastructure.html]
- “How would a big California earthquake affect communications?” [https://www.govtech.com/news/how-would-a-big-california-earthquake-affect-communications]
- “Major California earthquake would knock out cell service…” [https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-10-21/california-earthquake-could-cut-off-communications-for-weeks] Probability the answer is correct: 95%
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