Several Android and iPhone users received an ’emergency alert’ message today, accompanied by a loud beeping sound, which created panic among the mobile users. The beep keeps coming till the user presses OK. The purpose is to ensure that the message has been read.
The notification labelled as “Emergency Alert: Extreme,” was delivered in English, Hindi and Assamese languages. It conveyed the following:
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 the Natural Disaster Management Authority. It aims to enhance public safety and provide timely alerts during emergencies.
The Department of Telecommunications(DoT), collaborated with the National Disaster Management Authority(NDMA) and has announced the implementation of the “Cell Broadcast Alert System”. This system aims to deliver real-time alerts to citizens during disaster scenarios such as Tsunamis, Flash Flood, Earthquake, Landslides and many more.
Throughout the testing phase, individuals will received simultaneous emergency alert messages on their devices. the government has assured that these test alerts do not indicate an actual emergency and will clearly be labelled as a “SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE” to prevent any confusion.
