Google launches tool to locate those caught in Kashmir floods

Web and SMS-based tool can be used to search for or provide information about people affected by the floods.


Web Desk September 10, 2014

Google has reintroduced its web and SMS-based tool to help people locate their friends and family stranded in Indian Kashmir, which is currently facing one of the worst floods in 60 years.

Google Person Finder, available in both English and Hindi, is an open source web application that allows individuals to post the details of, and search for the status of family members or friends who have been affected by the disaster.

The application has been used time and again in disaster-hit areas to post and search for information about each other's status and whereabouts, and was created by volunteer Google engineers in response to the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

According to Google India Blog, if someone is worried about their loved ones in a disaster affected area, they can use the “I’m Looking for Someone” option on the web tool by typing in the name of the person they want to find.

Alternatively, if someone wants to provide information about themselves or someone they have information about, they can use the “I have information about someone” option in the web application and provide names and details.

With over 4,500 records, search can also be accessed by sending a text message from the cell phone with "search <name>" to 9773300000.

The application was made available in Pakistan during the 2010 floods. However, it was not know whether the service has been made available in Pakistan as floods once again ravage through upper Punjab.

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