Pan-India Testing Of Indigenous Cell Broadcast System Underway For Rapid Disaster Alerts
The Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority, is strengthening mobile-based disaster communication systems across India. This initiative aims to ensure that critical information reaches citizens promptly during emergencies.
The National Disaster Management Authority has already operationalised the Integrated Alert System, known as SACHET. Developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics, this system follows the Common Alerting Protocol recommended by the International Telecommunication Union. It currently functions across all 36 States and Union Territories and delivers disaster-related alerts through SMS to users located in targeted geographical areas.
Moreover, authorities have used the system extensively during emergencies. It has enabled the transmission of more than 134 billion SMS alerts so far. These alerts have been issued in over 19 Indian languages, covering natural disasters, severe weather warnings, and cyclonic events.
Introduction Of Cell Broadcast Technology
To further improve emergency communication, authorities have introduced Cell Broadcast technology alongside SMS alerts. This system allows alerts to reach all mobile devices within a defined area at the same time. As a result, it ensures near real-time delivery, which is crucial during time-sensitive situations such as earthquakes, tsunamis, lightning strikes, and industrial hazards like gas leaks.
The Centre for Development of Telematics has been assigned the responsibility of developing and implementing this indigenous Cell Broadcast-based public alert system. Consequently, this marks a significant step towards enhancing India’s disaster preparedness infrastructure.
Nationwide Testing And Public Advisory
Authorities have now begun nationwide testing as part of the system’s rollout. These trials aim to evaluate performance and reliability before the official launch. During this phase, individuals may receive test messages in English, Hindi, and various regional languages on their mobile devices.
However, these test messages will only appear on devices where Cell Broadcast test channels are enabled. Users can manage these settings through their phone’s safety and emergency alert options. Additionally, recipients may receive the same message multiple times to ensure the system functions effectively across all network conditions.
Importantly, these messages are part of a controlled testing exercise. Therefore, recipients do not need to take any action upon receiving them.
Future Implementation And Coverage
Once testing concludes successfully, the Cell Broadcast system will become fully operational. It will deliver alerts across all mobile handsets, regardless of user settings, thereby ensuring comprehensive public coverage. This approach will enable authorities to communicate quickly and efficiently during emergencies.
The Department of Telecommunications has requested public cooperation during this testing phase. It has also emphasised that all messages received during this period are strictly for validation purposes and require no response from users.
With inputs from PIB