Govt tests emergency alert system for potential disasters to enhance public safety

New Delhi: India on Thursday conducted a trial of its emergency alert system, reaching out to multiple smartphones through a test flash notification. The recipients of the message heard a loud audio beep on their devices, coupled with a visual message stating 'emergency alert: severe'.

IBNS • 17 Aug 2023, 05:50 pm

"This is a SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE sent through Cell Broadcasting System by Department of Telecommunication, Government of India. Please ignore this message as no action is required from your end. This message has been sent to TEST Pan-India Emergency Alert System being implemented by National Disaster Management Authority. It aims to enhance public safety and provide timely alerts during emergencies," read the flash message.

At 1:35 pm today, the emergency alert message was successfully delivered to all Android phones.

These tests will be conducted periodically in various regions to evaluate the functionality and efficacy of emergency warning broadcasting capabilities provided by mobile operators and the Cell Broadcasting System, overseen by the Department of Telecommunication.

The government is collaborating with the National Disaster Management Authority to enhance preparedness for potential disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and flash floods.

Phone users in India had previously received a similar test alert on July 20, as part of the ongoing efforts to bolster the nation's disaster response capabilities.