India Tests Emergency Alert System
Millions of mobile users across India received a test emergency alert on Saturday as the Centre activated its indigenous Cell Broadcast emergency alert system. The message was marked as an “Extremely Severe Alert” but clarified that it was only a test and no action was required.
India Emergency Alert System Tested
The alert was sent as part of the formal rollout of India’s Cell Broadcast Alert System, designed to send urgent public safety messages directly to mobile phones during disasters and emergencies.
The system can deliver alerts without requiring internet access or a mobile application. It is meant to ensure that citizens receive critical warnings quickly during natural disasters, weather threats or public safety incidents.
Cell Broadcast Alert On Mobile Phones
The test message caused phones to beep loudly and display a warning on the screen. Unlike normal SMS alerts, the Cell Broadcast system can override silent mode and do-not-disturb settings to ensure that users notice the message immediately.
The alert system is expected to be used during emergencies such as earthquakes, tsunamis, lightning strikes, gas leaks, chemical hazards and other disaster situations.
SACHET Platform For Disaster Warnings
The system has been developed by C-DOT and operates through the SACHET platform, which follows the Common Alerting Protocol. It has been rolled out in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority.
Officials said the platform is operational across all 36 states and Union Territories. The government has also used disaster alert systems to send warnings in multiple Indian languages during cyclones, extreme weather events and other emergencies.
