- Emergency alert messages were sent out today by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
- This was actually a test to send emergency alerts as flash messages.
- Such tests are said to be carried out in different areas to see how efficient the alert warnings are.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) today tested its emergency alert system. This was done by sending out a flash message to users across the country. The alert clearly mentions that it’s a test so users need not be alarmed but it will be used in the future for any major disaster in the country.
DoT emergency alert test
The emergency alert message was sent across India, and users have been sharing it on social media. It’s understandable that people might have been alarmed by the message since it says, “Emergency alert: Severe” right on top. But as you read the text you can see that it’s actually a test sent through the Cell Broadcasting System by DoT.
In the alert it’s also mentioned that the test has been conducted pan-India so mobile phone users across the country must have received it. The aim behind sending out these alerts is to help inform the public about any such emergencies that may occur in the country. This is being implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
So if there’s any such major disaster in the country then we would be receiving alerts with the required information. These alerts are also expected to include advise on what needs to be done or prevented in light of the situation. A similar test alert was conducted in July as well, and more such alerts will be tested out in different areas.
As for this alert that was sent out, it appears as a flash message on your phone. You can read it, and it will disappear once you press ok just below the text.
The NDMA has been carrying out the practice of sending alerts through SMSes. In the past few months, SMSes with warnings about heavy rainfall and thunderstorms were being sent out. Nowadays, you can easily find updates and alerts about any major disaster through dedicated tools in apps such as Google. But if there’s no internet connectivity then flash messages can be very helpful in such situations.
