Bangkok, Thailand – 25-26 March 2025 – A high-level delegation from India's Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), comprising representatives from the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) and the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), concluded a crucial two-day visit to Thailand, solidifying collaborative efforts to enhance regional disaster prevention and management.
Hosted by the Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES), the delegation's primary objective was to assess Thailand's disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities, specifically those of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), and to identify strategic areas for collaborative advancement. The discussions centered on the exchange of expertise, knowledge sharing, and the joint development of enhanced disaster preparedness strategies and robust early warning systems.
MoES Delegation Exploring the NDWC Operations Center, Bang Na, Bangkok, Thailand
The visit commenced on March 25th with a comprehensive tour of the National Disaster Warning Center (NDWC) in Bang Na, Bangkok. This initial engagement allowed the delegation to evaluate the operational framework of the NDWC and engage in strategic discussions with Thai officials on refining and strengthening the nation's early warning systems. Following this, the delegation proceeded to the DDPM headquarters in Dusit, Bangkok, where in-depth talks focused on critical aspects such as improving data exchange mechanisms, advancing tsunami monitoring technologies, and bolstering ocean disaster response capabilities.
On March 26th, the delegation visited the RIMES headquarters, where Director General A.R. Subbiah led discussions aimed at providing a deeper understanding of RIMES’ operational framework, its innovative data-sharing systems, and the advanced early warning services it provides to regional stakeholders. The discussions at RIMES headquarters emphasized the importance of leveraging cutting-edge technologies and fostering strong regional partnerships to enhance disaster risk management across the region.
MoES Delegation’s Visit to RIMES Headquarters on March 26, 2025
This two-day visit explored innovative solutions, best practices, and the potential of cutting-edge technologies to collectively enhance disaster risk management efforts. The discussions underscored the shared commitment of all participating organizations to build stronger and more effective early warning systems, ensuring that timely and accurate alerts can lead to more effective disaster response and, ultimately, the protection of lives and communities.
These engagements signify a significant step towards strengthening regional collaboration in disaster preparedness, particularly in mitigating ocean-related hazards. The continued cooperation between India, RIMES, and Thailand is crucial for ensuring timely alerts, enhancing resilience, and safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of communities across the region.