Disaster alert notification application to improve Myanmar’s preparedness

A mobile application that bridges the information gap on disaster risk communication in Myanmar was released in Nay Pyi Taw last week.

The new mobile app, known as Disaster Alert Notification or DAN, provides warnings to communities in times of disaster as well as notifications, important news, Do's and Don'ts for prevalent hazards,  and  phone numbers that the general public can contact during emergencies. The application also provides a link to the website of the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) which users can refer to for weather forecasts and early warning information.

Myanmar ranks highest among the South East Asian countries in terms of social and economic vulnerability. Lessons from past disasters, such as Cyclone Nargis (2008), Cyclone Mahasen (2013), and Cyclone Komen (2015), highlight the need for a more efficient risk communication system, as well as the urgency to address gaps in disaster preparedness and last mile risk communication and dissemination.

The application was developed by the Department of Relief and Resettlement, of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement as part of the Ministry’s 100 days plan with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the joint Adaptation Fund, Government of the Union of Myanmar and UNDP project -Addressing Climate Change Risks on Water Resources and Food Security in the Dry Zone of Myanmar.

The “Disaster Alert Notification” app will no doubt contribute significantly to our efforts on disaster risk reduction in Myanmar. It enables the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement to communicate risks to the general public through use of mobile technology,” said Dr. Ko Ko Naing, Director General, Relief and Resettlement Department, Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement.

Myanmar has made a digital leap with mobile phone subscriber figures jumping by millions over the past few years. The coverage rates have climbed from 70% in September 2014 to 95% in March 2016.With the increase in mobile network and availability of low-cost smart phones, access to risk information through mobile technology will enhance disaster preparedness at the community level.

The android version of the app called DAN Myanmar can be accessed from Google Play Store as well as downloaded directly through the website.

The iOS version can be accessed from the App Store.