Nationwide Cell Broadcast Test Underway
The Government of India has initiated nationwide testing of its Cell Broadcast (CB) alert system to strengthen emergency communication during disasters. The alerts are being sent through the Integrated Alert System ‘SACHET’, developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics.
The system enables authorities to send geo-targeted emergency messages directly to mobile users and is already operational across all States and Union Territories. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is currently conducting trial runs to evaluate system performance before its official launch.
As part of the testing, people may receive multiple “test messages” in English, Hindi, and regional languages on their mobile phones, often accompanied by an alert sound. Officials have clarified that these are only test alerts, and the public need not take any action.
Once fully implemented, the system will ensure fast and widespread dissemination of critical alerts across all mobile devices during emergencies.
