ISRO Upgrades Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT) for Fishermen

ISRO Upgrades Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT) for Fishermen

ISRO has recently updated its signal transmitter from Distress Alert Transmitter to Second Generation DAT (DAT-SG) since the system employed helps the search and rescue operations carried out in maritime region. This is a significant leap towards ensuring that fishermen are protected, and are quickly rescued in case of an occurrence at the middle of the sea besides assisting in other services.

Key Features of the Second Generation DAT (DAT-SG)

• Two-way Communication: Unlike the previous version, DAT-SG can receive messages from the control centre, allowing fishermen to be notified in advance of bad weather conditions, cyclones, tsunamis, or other emergencies.
• Rescue Acknowledgement: Fishermen who activate the distress alert receive confirmation of their alert, assuring them that a rescue operation is underway.
• Fishing Zone Information: DAT-SG provides information about Potential Fishing Zones (PFZs), enabling fishermen to optimize their catch, saving both time and fuel.
• Mobile Connectivity: The device can be connected to mobile phones via Bluetooth, allowing users to read messages in their native language through a dedicated mobile app.
• Real-time Coordination: It supports real-time coordination between Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) and the Indian Coast Guard, significantly reducing response time in distress situations.
• 24×7 Operational Services: The upgraded system is functional around the clock, ensuring uninterrupted support for fishermen in the maritime domain.

‘SAGARMITRA’: Network Management System

A web based network system called ‘SAGARMITRA’ is being handled by the Indian Mission Control Centre or INMCC for short forms. This system keeps records of specific local DAT-SGs on the list of registered ships for proper tracking of the vessels at sea in normal and crisis times. The system also helps in managing the fishing zoning and weather advisory.

How to Silence AMBER Alerts

AMBER Alerts are vital emergency notifications, but if you prefer to silence them, here’s how you can do it:

On iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Notifications.
3. Scroll down to the Government Alerts section.
4. Toggle off AMBER Alerts.

On Android:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Safety & Emergency or Apps & Notifications (depending on your device).
3. Select Wireless Emergency Alerts.
4. Toggle off AMBER Alerts.

What is Alarm and Distress?

• Alarm: A heightened state of awareness or fear in anticipation of potential danger.
• Distress: A condition involving extreme discomfort, pain, or hardship, often prompting urgent action, such as a rescue operation.

AMBER Alerts Not Working?

If you are not receiving AMBER Alerts on your phone, try the following troubleshooting steps:

1. Update Your Device: Ensure that your phone’s operating system is up to date.
2. Check Carrier Support: Confirm with your carrier that they support Wireless Emergency Alerts.
3. Reset Network Settings: On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
4. Toggle Airplane Mode: Turning Airplane Mode on and off may reset your network connection, potentially resolving any issues.

The Second Generation DAT-SG is an innovation which will assist the fishermen as well as help the fishermen with their safety during their working period onboard, and the equipment will assist them with their day to day working activities. The ISRO along with Indian Coast Guard and MRCCs have assured precautionary measure make rescue operation efficient and reliable at sea.