In a nationwide exercise, millions of mobile users across India received a loud emergency “beep” alert on their phones as the government tested its new disaster warning system built on Cell Broadcast technology.
The alert, which appeared as an “Extremely Severe Alert” notification, caused brief panic among users before it was clarified that the message was only part of a trial and required no action.
The system has been developed using indigenous technology and is integrated with the government’s SACHET platform to deliver real-time warnings during emergencies such as earthquakes, floods, or cyclones.
Unlike traditional SMS alerts, the Cell Broadcast system can instantly send messages to all mobile phones in a specific geographical area simultaneously, even if networks are congested or phones are on silent mode.
The nationwide test, conducted by the National Disaster Management Authority in coordination with the Department of Telecommunications, aims to evaluate the reach and effectiveness of the system before full-scale implementation.
Officials said the alerts will eventually be delivered in multiple languages and across all compatible devices, ensuring that critical information reaches citizens quickly during disasters.
Authorities have urged people not to panic upon receiving such alerts during the testing phase, emphasizing that the initiative is designed to strengthen India’s disaster preparedness and save lives through faster communication.
