The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority will conduct a ‘Cell Broadcast Alert System’ test to enhance emergency communication during disasters and ensure the safety and well-being of citizens.
For Meghalaya the test will be carried out on October 30, subject to change if necessary.
The system is being tested on each service provider. These tests will be performed from time to time to gauge the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency alert broadcasting capabilities of the systems in place of various mobile operators and cell broadcast systems.
The alert system is a state-of-the-art technology that allows the authorities to send critical and time-sensitive messages for disaster management to all mobile devices within a designated geographical area, irrespective of whether the recipients are residents or visitors. This ensures that important emergency information reaches as many people as possible in a timely manner.
It is used by government agencies and emergency services to inform the public about potential threats and keep them informed during critical situations, such as severe weather warnings (tsunami, flash flood, earthquake, etc), public safety messages, evacuation notices and other critical information.
During the testing period, people may receive simulated emergency alerts on their mobile devices. The DoT has assured that these alerts are part of the planned testing process and do not indicate an actual emergency. Each test alert will clearly indicate that it is a test message to avoid confusion.
