India has tested its Cell Broadcast messaging system using indigenous technology to deliver instant disaster alerts to citizens during emergencies. The test message, sent with a siren alert, stated that no public action was required and described the notification as part of an instant disaster alerting service launched by the Government of India.
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SACHET Platform Used for Disaster Alerts
The Department of Telecommunications is working with the National Disaster Management Authority to strengthen mobile-based disaster communication systems across the country. Saturday’s test alert was part of this effort.
The Integrated Alert System, known as SACHET, has been developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics. The system is built on the Common Alerting Protocol recommended by the International Telecommunication Union and is active across all 36 states and Union Territories.
Cell Broadcast Adds Faster Emergency Reach
The platform has already been used by disaster management agencies to issue more than 134 billion SMS alerts in over 19 Indian languages during natural disasters, cyclones and severe weather events.
To improve response time in urgent situations such as earthquakes, tsunamis, lightning strikes, gas leaks and chemical hazards, authorities have introduced Cell Broadcast technology alongside the existing SMS-based alert system. Unlike SMS, Cell Broadcast messages can be sent simultaneously to all mobile devices within a specified area, allowing near real-time public communication.
Test Alerts Depend on Phone Settings
Saturday’s test alerts reached devices where users had enabled Cell Broadcast test channels. Users can manage these alerts through the phone settings path: Safety and emergency, Wireless emergency alerts and Test alerts. Multiple messages may be received during the trial period to check smooth functioning across the telecom network.
Once the system becomes fully operational, Cell Broadcast alerts will be delivered in multiple Indian languages to all mobile handsets, irrespective of test channel settings. Authorities said the initiative is aimed at enabling timely communication during critical situations and strengthening public safety outreach across the country.
