Last month, many people in India got a loud message on their phones with a beeping sound. It was just a test to check if the emergency alert system works. Today, users got another test message titled “Emergency alert: Severe”. The alert message pops up on your phone screen, no matter what app you're using. It comes with a loud beeping sound that doesn't stop until you press the OK button.
At 12:19 PM today, the message was received by mostly users having Airtel network which stated, "This is a SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE sent through Cell Broadcasting System by 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,"
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If you got this message and wondered what it was, it's the government testing the emergency alert system with phone companies.
This system, implemented in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority, serves as a crucial lifeline during emergencies such as floods, tsunamis, earthquakes, and health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Importantly, the notification reassured recipients that no action was required on their part.
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Since August, users have received several 'emergency alert: severe message' notifications, with today's instance marking the sixth such message.
Back in July, the Ministry of Communications announced its collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority to conduct testing of the Cell Broadcast Alert System. The initiative aimed to boost emergency communication during disasters, ultimately ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian citizens.
