Centre Launches Nationwide Tests for Real-Time Mobile Disaster Alerts

The Government of India, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has launched nationwide tests for a real-time mobile disaster alert system. These tests are part of a broader initiative to enhance emergency preparedness and public safety through rapid, location-specific alerts delivered directly to citizens' mobile devices.

The system, based on Cell Broadcast technology, is designed to send emergency alerts in real-time during natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, cyclones, and tsunamis. These alerts can be pushed even when mobile networks are congested, making them a critical tool during crises. The messages are geo-targeted and can be delivered in multiple regional languages, ensuring accessibility and clarity for diverse populations across India.

As part of the pilot rollout, mobile users across Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and West Bengal received test messages titled “Emergency Alert: This is a test message from the Department of Telecommunications.” These tests are conducted in partnership with major telecom operators including Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL to ensure nationwide compatibility and network resilience.

The government emphasized that the messages are harmless trial runs and urged the public not to panic. Officials noted that these tests are essential for evaluating the performance, reach, and reliability of the mobile alert infrastructure.

This new system complements the existing Integrated Alert System (SACHET), which has already sent more than 6,899 crore SMS alerts in over 19 Indian languages across all 36 States and Union Territories. SACHET operates using the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), a standard endorsed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

This initiative is in line with global best practices and mirrors systems used in countries like the United States (FEMA alerts) and Japan (J-Alert). With climate-related disasters increasing in frequency and intensity, such proactive communication systems are vital to saving lives and minimizing damage during emergencies.

India’s move toward implementing a robust mobile emergency communication system marks a significant step in leveraging digital technology for disaster risk reduction. Full-scale deployment of the Mobile Disaster Alert System is expected in the coming months following successful testing and fine-tuning based on public and operator feedback.