What is Emergency Communication Alert?
DoT to conduct Cell Broadcast Alert System testing to enhance emergency communication during disasters
The Department of Telecommunications is excited to announce a collaborative effort with the National Disaster Management Authority to conduct tests of the Cell Broadcast Alert System. These tests aim to bolster emergency communication capabilities during disasters and prioritize the safety and well-being of our esteemed citizens.
In our unwavering dedication to the safety of Indian citizens and communities, the Cell Broadcast Alert System is undergoing comprehensive testing across all Telecom Service Providers. These assessments will occur periodically in different regions throughout the country to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of emergency alert broadcasting systems deployed by various Mobile Operators and the Cell Broadcast System.
The Cell Broadcast Alert System stands as an advanced technology that empowers us to dispatch critical and time-sensitive messages for disaster management to all mobile devices within specific geographic zones, regardless of whether recipients are residents or visitors. This guarantees the widespread dissemination of vital emergency information in a prompt manner. Government agencies and emergency services rely on this system to apprise the public of potential threats and to keep them informed during critical circumstances. Cell Broadcast is commonly utilized to transmit emergency alerts, including severe weather warnings (e.g., Tsunami, Flash Flood, Earthquake, etc.), public safety advisories, evacuation directives, and other pivotal updates.
Throughout the testing phase, individuals may receive simulated emergency alerts on their mobile devices. We want to assure you that these alerts are part of the planned testing procedure and do not indicate an actual emergency. Each test alert will be clearly labeled as a “SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE” to prevent any confusion.
On the morning of Thursday, July 20, a sudden surge of emergency alert notifications inundated the mobile phones of Indian citizens. These test alerts, transmitted simultaneously across numerous cities, were attributed to the Department of Telecommunication, Government of India, which led to widespread confusion.
The notification carried the following message: “Emergency Alert: Severe. This message serves as a test alert from the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India. Date: 20-07-2023.”