Following Thailand’s worst flooding in 2011 that killed 800 people, affected nearly 14 million and disrupted the economy, the famed HS0AC Amateur Radio station is now complete with a meeting facility at the Asian Institute of Technology.
The devastating flooding in 65 of 77 provinces also destroyed the Amateur Radio facility in central Thailand, which received many donations and offers of help to re-establish the station.
During the flood Thai radio amateurs stepped in to help with emergency communications and hand out supplies. Working with the Ministry of Public Health they saved almost 1,000 lives.
National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) used HS0AB for the Government’s Flood Relief Operations Command.
The NBTC praised the role that radio amateurs played to help people cope with the disaster by providing communications support, especially helpful in flooded areas where several mobile phone cell sites had failed.
Government agencies used the Amateur Radio communications infrastructure when their own networks failed. Using their skills and experience radio amateurs kept communicating with one another under adverse conditions.
RAST President Jack Hantongkom HS1FVL, who recently led a restoration team, will hold an “HS0AC Open House” event on August 3, inviting Thai radio club representatives to attend.
Delays in the rebuilding were due to consideration of moving the station, but eventually it was decided to stay put. With help of professionals the repair and refurbishment work began under the guidance of Jack HS1FVL.
A new interior with tables and chairs, air-conditioner, lighting, electrical and plumbing work done, and new antennas and coaxial cabling installed.
Several RAST members donated equipment, including a microwave oven and 25 downlights to replace fluorescent lighting to avoid ballasts that may cause interference.
Among other donors are Yaesu giving FT2000 transceivers and the IARU Region 3. New antennas, mostly monobanders, are stacked on the three towers.
Look out for a big HS0AC signal during special event activities and contests. RAST, a member society of the IARU Region 3, is expected to be particularly active during its 50th anniversary year.
- Jim Linton VK3PC, Chairman IARU Region 3 Disaster Communications Committee.