New Delhi: Millions of mobile users across India received an urgent alert on their phones as the government conducted a nationwide test of its newly launched disaster information system. The message, labelled “Extremely Severe Alert,” was part of a trial run and required no action, reassuring citizens while introducing a powerful new public safety tool.
The system, developed by Centre for Development of Telematics and operated through the SACHET platform, marks a significant advancement in disaster communication. Officially launched by Amit Shah and Jyotiraditya Scindia, the platform is now active across all states and union territories.
Unlike traditional SMS alerts, the new Cell Broadcast system is designed to immediately capture attention. It can override silent and do-not-disturb settings, triggering a loud alarm along with a prominent on-screen notification. This ensures that critical warnings reach users instantly, even if their devices are muted.
The technology is built on the globally recognised Common Alerting Protocol, enhancing reliability and enabling targeted communication in specific areas during emergencies. Authorities can use the system to issue warnings for natural disasters such as earthquakes, cyclones, tsunamis, and lightning strikes, as well as for man-made incidents including gas leaks and chemical hazards.
Officials highlighted that the earlier alert system had already been used extensively, delivering billions of messages in multiple Indian languages during past emergencies. The new upgrade aims to improve speed, reach, and effectiveness, ensuring that no individual is left uninformed during critical situations.
Once fully operational, the Cell Broadcast system will be capable of reaching all compatible mobile devices simultaneously, making it one of the most comprehensive public alert mechanisms in the country. The initiative reflects a major step towards strengthening disaster preparedness and safeguarding citizens through timely and reliable communication.
