Uzbekistan introduces mosque-based emergency alert system

Uzbekistan has introduced a system to warn the public about emergencies through mosques, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reported.

According to the statement, UNDP, in cooperation with the Ministry of Emergency Situations, has implemented an innovative technical solution aimed at expanding the coverage of early warning systems during emergencies.

Under the initiative, special equipment is being installed in mosques located near residential areas. This enables the rapid transmission of emergency messages from the ministry through external loudspeakers, ensuring that information reaches the public quickly. To date, the equipment has been installed in 272 mosques across Jizzakh, Kashkadarya, Namangan, Samarkand, Syrdarya, Tashkent, and Fergana regions.

“The selection of mosques is not accidental: they are traditionally regarded as influential social institutions within local communities. In addition, mosques are present in nearly all settlements and are equipped with high-powered external loudspeakers capable of covering a radius of 500 to 2,000 meters. According to project estimates, the system can reach approximately 6.5 million people, including women, men, children, and vulnerable groups,” the statement said.

It was noted that emergency messages can be transmitted even in the event of disruptions to mobile communications or electricity supply.

The report also added that, with the support of UNDP and financing from the Green Climate Fund, 28 large outdoor screens have been installed along major roads and in crowded areas to enhance public alert systems.