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Telkom Indonesia has partnered with Gadjah Mada University (UGM) to develop an innovative earthquake detection system that leverages the company’s existing subsea cable infrastructure. By integrating Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology, this initiative aims to enhance early warning capabilities for seismic events in Indonesia’s coastal regions.
Harnessing DAS Technology for Earthquake Detection
DAS technology utilizes the inherent properties of optical fibers to detect vibrations and acoustic signals along their length. When applied to subsea cables, DAS can identify seismic waves, particularly primary waves that precede more destructive secondary waves. This enables real-time earthquake detection, providing critical seconds to minutes of warning before the main shock, which is vital for initiating evacuation and disaster response protocols.
Enhancing Subsea Cable Monitoring
In addition to its seismic detection capabilities, DAS technology offers Telkom Indonesia a robust solution for monitoring the integrity of its subsea cable network. The company reports frequent disruptions—ranging from 15 to 17 incidents annually—due to both natural events and human activities such as fishing and shipping. The implementation of DAS will allow for continuous monitoring, enabling the early identification of potential threats to the infrastructure and facilitating timely maintenance actions.
Pilot Implementation and Data Sharing
The initial phase of this project will focus on inter-island subsea cables located along Indonesia’s west and southern coasts, areas known for their seismic activity. Telkom Indonesia plans to test the DAS technology in these regions before considering broader deployment. Furthermore, the company and UGM have established a collaborative protocol to ensure that the data collected from this initiative is accessible for research and public policy development, aiming to strengthen Indonesia’s national disaster response systems.
Global Context and Future Prospects
This collaboration positions Indonesia at the forefront of utilizing telecommunications infrastructure for environmental monitoring. Similar efforts are underway globally, such as the “Tamtam” subsea cable project in the Pacific, which integrates climate change monitoring capabilities. The success of Telkom Indonesia’s initiative could serve as a model for other nations seeking to enhance their disaster preparedness and response strategies through innovative technological solutions.
For more information on Distributed Acoustic Sensing and its applications in maritime environments, visit the A*STAR Institute of Infocomm Research.(A-Star)
