Ham Hope: Operators Seek Role in National Disaster Protocol
Over a hundred ham radio operators in Bangladesh have pledged their commitment to assist with emergency communications during crises such as earthquakes, cyclones, floods, or power outages—when mobile and internet networks may become disrupted. They have urged the government to formally recognize amateur radio as part of the national disaster response protocol and designate them as first responders during emergencies.
The Amateur Radio Association of Bangladesh (ARAB) and Amateur Radio Society of Bangladesh (ARSB) made the appeal during a seminar titled “The Role of Amateur/Ham Radio During Natural Disasters,” held at the BTRC headquarters in Agargaon on Wednesday, July 30.
In their appeal, they also called for policy support in several areas, including easing customs complications in importing receivers, simplifying the licensing process through online platforms, issuing club call signs, and expanding the repeater network to connect the entire country.
The seminar highlighted the technical aspects of amateur or ham radio, the licensing process, and the importance of disaster preparedness as an alternative communication system to conventional telecommunication networks. Licensed participants showcased their radio equipment, satellite gear, walkie-talkies, and transmitters during the event.
Brigadier General (Retd.) Iqbal Ahmed, Commissioner of the BTRC's Engineering and Operations Division, delivered the keynote address. He praised amateur radio operators for their significant contribution during the recent flooding in Feni, where they provided communication in areas cut off from the mobile network. He encouraged them to work in coordination with relevant state agencies, develop their organizational structure, and build technical capabilities.
Brigadier General Md. Aminul Haque, Director General of the Spectrum Division, presented a historical overview of long-distance telecommunications, the emergence of amateur radio, and its regulatory landscape. He emphasized the importance of forming response teams tailored to Bangladesh’s disaster profile, organizing awareness workshops, and coordinating with relevant stakeholders. He also noted that steps are underway to streamline the amateur radio licensing process.
In his concluding remarks, BTRC Spectrum Division Commissioner Mahmud Hossain assured that the Commission would extend all necessary cooperation to ham radio operators. He advised them to avoid using illegal walkie-talkies and ensure that their equipment is procured and used in compliance with BTRC regulations. He also expressed gratitude to all participants for their active involvement in the seminar.
Amateur radio began its journey in Bangladesh in 1979 and gained institutional recognition following the 1991 cyclone. To date, BTRC has issued call signs to 813 licensed operators through examinations. An additional 365 examinees from the 2025 session are currently in the process of receiving their licenses and call signs.
Initially, amateur radio was pursued as a hobby, but its utility expanded following the First World War. In 1925, the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) was established, and April 18 is now celebrated annually as World Amateur Radio Day.
