Bangkok: The NBTC office has partnered with TV Channel 5 to conduct a test of a disaster warning system on 11 digital TV channels on November 13 in the provinces of Phayao and Chumphon.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chanthapat Khamkokkrawad, Acting Deputy Secretary-General of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), announced that the NBTC, in collaboration with the Royal Thai Army Radio and Television Station (TVS), is set to trial the Emergency Warning System (EWS) on 11 digital terrestrial television channels using the TVS network. This test is scheduled for Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 12:00 AM to 1:00 AM in the Phayao and Chumphon provinces.
Mr. Chantapat explained that the EWS is being developed to deliver rapid, timely, comprehensive, and accessible disaster alerts to citizens, particularly those without smartphones or in areas lacking mobile phone signals. If developed as planned, the system will automatically display messages on digital TV receivers, accompanied by alert sounds and official announcements from relevant agencies. This will enable the public to access critical information and prepare for emergencies promptly.
This testing of the EWS aligns with the NBTC’s policy and operational plan to enhance disaster warning systems, ensuring they are effective and inclusive. Thailand’s digital terrestrial television network covers approximately 95.6 percent of households nationwide, consisting of 168 stations, including 39 main stations and 129 supplementary stations.
“Television serves as an easily accessible and vital tool for emergency and disaster preparedness. This is a step towards building a reliable public communication network for warnings, leveraging the country’s digital network to ensure the safety of all citizens,” stated Mr. Chantapat.
Lt. Gen. Awat Phutta-Amnuay, Director-General of the Royal Thai Army Radio and Television Station, highlighted that the EWS testing is a collaborative effort with the NBTC. Technical trials began on May 8, 2024, in a closed system. Based on these results, the system demonstrated effective performance, prompting the request for open system testing. The test will occur at the Northern Station in Phayao Province and the Southern Station in Chumphon Province, simulating a nationwide alert.
The warning signal will be visible on television screens in test areas receiving signals from Network 2 and Network 5, across 11 channels including TNN, Workpoint TV, and Channel 5. Each test will last two minutes, with message content displayed for one minute. Other network channels will remain unaffected.
This open-system test aims to evaluate system performance, determine precise warning signal delivery times, and identify areas for improvement. It also prepares the Royal Thai Army Radio and Television Station as the sole network provider of disaster warnings, enhancing public safety and reducing potential damages. Under the Royal Thai Army’s leadership, the station is committed to its mission as the primary public security media, supporting the public and contributing to Thai society.