Indian government tests ’emergency alert system’ again, sends sample message to several users

NEW DELHI — The government of India on Friday conducted a test of its “emergency alert system” again by sending a sample message to several smartphone users.

A loud beep and a flash with the words “emergency alert: severe” were received by users across the country.

“This is a SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE sent through the Cell Broadcasting System by the 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.

It was sent at 12.19 pm on all Android phones through the Cell Broadcasting System by the Department of Telecommunication.

After receiving the alert on their smartphones, a number of users took to X (formerly Twitter), sharing their opinions.

“Just Received #EmergencyAlert on my Phone. It’s a great technology, hope they can integrate it with earthquakes,” a user wrote.

“How many of you get this alert?….A beep beep sound along with this msg! Is it really an initiative taken by GOI for emergency alert or something else? Department of Telecommunications #emergencyalert” another user said.

According to Cell Broadcasting System, such tests will be conducted on a regular basis in various regions to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of mobile operators’ and cell broadcast systems’ emergency warning broadcast capabilities.

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

Phone users across the country had received similar test alerts in July and August.

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