10 october 2023
By: Samira siddiqui
Android & Apple iPhone users in India recently received a surprising 'emergency alert' message accompanied by a loud beep on their smartphones. For those who were curious, let's find out what this means and why the government keeps sending these alert messages.
"This is a SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE sent through the Cell Broadcasting System by Department of Telecommunication, Government of India........................ Timestamp: 10-10-2023 11:58 AM."
The Department of Telecommunication (DoT) announced that such tests will be conducted periodically in various regions. These tests aim to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency warning broadcast capabilities offered by mobile operators and cell broadcast systems.
The government's initiative to send emergency alerts is part of its collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority. The goal is to notify and prepare users for natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and flash floods.
When the alert flashes on users' mobile phones, it will be accompanied by a loud alarm-like beeping noise. Users need to press 'OK' to stop the continuous beeping. The primary goal of this test is to ensure that users receive and acknowledge emergency alert messages promptly.
The implementation of a Pan-India Emergency Alert System underscores the govt's commitment to enhancing public safety & providing timely alerts during critical situations, ultimately saving lives & reducing the impact of emergencies.