NDMAs Sachet App Becomes Lifesaver for Farmers and Fishermen During Disasters

Valsad, August 17: During natural disasters, the government’s top priority is to minimize loss of life and property. In this context, the ‘Sachet’ app and the ‘Sachet National Disaster Alert Portal’ developed by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have proven to be lifesaving tools. In Gujarat, farmers, fishermen, and citizens receive real-time alerts about cyclones, heavy rainfall, lightning, floods, and heatwaves through the ‘Sachet App’, which is based on the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) and geo-fencing technology. This helps them reach safer locations and reduce potential damage.

Farmer Ambubhai Patel from Valsad shared that the app provides crucial weather updates. It informs farmers about impending storms and rainfall, allowing them to return home from the fields in time. If a farmer’s crop is ready, they can transport it to a safe place, making the ‘Sachet App’ a vital source of information.

Fisherman Bhagubhai Tandela remarked that the app is highly beneficial for fishermen, providing timely alerts about rain forecasts.

Traditionally, alerting the public through mass communication channels like TV and radio takes time. However, the ‘Sachet App’ simplifies this process. By analyzing data related to disaster forecasts in coordination with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the Water Commission, and other agencies, alerts are sent to state governments, local administrations, and village levels. This facilitates effective relief and rescue operations.

Ashok Kumar Das, Director of the Ahmedabad Meteorological Department, stated that the app provides weather information and updates, ensuring that people receive timely alerts about weather-related issues.

Relief Director S.C. Sawaliya mentioned that during this year’s monsoon in Ahmedabad, approximately 700 million messages were sent through various warning systems.

Timely warnings and accurate information during natural disasters can save thousands of lives. The ‘Sachet’ app, developed by NDMA, serves as a ‘digital safety shield’ for citizens. Its real-time, location-based, and multilingual disaster alerts have provided relief to millions in Gujarat and have proven instrumental in the successful execution of government and administrative rescue operations.