In this age of satellite phones and smartphones, does the ham radio, which in the past had a critical role in rescuing people during disasters and natural calamities, still have a role?
Hams across the world will spring to say, “Certainly.” And, hams in Kerala will immediately recall their critical role during the recent Ockhi disaster when most other communications systems had gone aground.
“During natural calamities, usually mobile phone towers get uprooted and power networks get disrupted resulting in the breakdown of normal telecommunication systems,” said Ashok Samuel Kolath. “This makes ham radio’s role in sending across critical communication crucial and relevant.”
This was underscored by the large turnout of ham enthusiasts at a two-day national field day held on Kappad beach here over the weekend. Over 100 enthusiasts, including a 79-year-old and two father-son duos, showed up for the camp. The State-level camp was organised by Calicut Hams.
Mr. Kolath pointed out that the camp discussed latest studies in radio propagation and adaptation of innovations in electronics that could add value to the ham radio. He said the new generation was fascinated by the ham radio because of its value as a service for society in times of disasters and as a science-based hobby.
