In April 2024, Taiwan was shaken by its most powerful earthquake in nearly three decades.
This disaster led to the collapse of phone lines, cell towers and internet service, leaving residents isolated and anxious for communication.
In the aftermath of such emergencies, teleport technology can provide a literal lifeline. That’s because these crucial systems, designed to connect satellite communications with ground networks, can spring into action when everything else fails—ensuring that essential information flows to support communities in crisis.
Responding quickly to crisis
At the time of the Taiwan earthquake, Calian’s Teleport Services team was midway through building a teleport gateway in Guam for satellite owner Eutelsat One Web.
This gateway, once finished, would eventually bridge the U.S. and Asia Pacific regions—including Taiwan—with the rest of the world. However, the project was still weeks away from completion when the quake occurred.
Calian quickly pivoted upon hearing the news, devising a short-term emergency “band-aid” solution using active antennas to get the teleport operational. This required precise coordination to avoid disrupting the ongoing installation.
Thanks to our team’s quick thinking, we were able to connect Taiwan to the gateway while still finishing the work in Guam—contributing to rescue and relief efforts in the region.
Supporting rescue efforts with real-time connectivity
By facilitating rapid information exchange, our advanced teleport solution allowed emergency responders and earthquake survivors to connect and access vital data in real-time—bridging communication gaps and empowering communities to unite in a time of crisis.
While it’s challenging to quantify the exact number of lives saved or positively impacted by our efforts, Calian takes great pride in enabling search-and-rescue communications and ongoing support for those in Taiwan.
In addition, our assistance helped ensure that individuals affected by the disaster could communicate with the outside world, whether reaching out to loved ones overseas or applying for much-needed aid.
Building resilience in an era of increasing disasters
With the ongoing rise of geopolitical conflicts and climate change, entire communities and millions of individuals around the globe are facing more frequent and severe disasters. Such disruptions can destroy homes, significantly disrupt economies and weaken community bonds.
Ensuring reliable communication—like reliable and sustainable teleport gateways—is crucial for supporting immediate recovery as well as long-term preparedness against future large-scale emergencies.
Calian proudly brings a decades-long legacy of commitment to community resilience—spearheading groundbreaking innovations in disaster risk management while also advancing critical areas like agriculture, food security, water, sanitation, hygiene and health on a global level.
Ensuring critical infrastructure for global relief
In crisis situations, Calian is regularly included in the short list of companies called to mobilize for real-world relief efforts.
Our response following the Taiwan earthquake highlighted our agility and effectiveness, and we were honoured to offer the necessary gateway infrastructure services during this urgent time. We are also pleased that Calian’s teleport in Guam has attained provisional certification from the World Teleport Association, reinforcing our commitment to maintaining the highest standards for teleports globally.
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About Calian CARES
When disaster strikes, there are two reasons why Calian is often called upon to help. First, we’re experts in this space. Second, we care, and we respond. As citizens of the world, we will be there when the world needs us.
