'Don't be Alarmed': Statewide emergency alert system to be tested on Oct 12

Bengaluru: In a collaborative effort between the Department of Telecommunication and the National Disaster Management Authority, a state-of-the-art early warning system has been launched to forewarn and prepare for future disasters. As part of this initiative, an emergency alert system will undergo testing in the state on October 12.

The Department of Telecommunication’s (C-DOT) state branch is set to conduct a rigorous test of the emergency alert system targeting smartphone users through cell broadcasting system. Messages have already been dispatched to mobile users, with the phone emitting a conspicuous warning beep and displaying a flash message. The alert will persist until the user acknowledges it by pressing OK, ensuring that the critical information is received. This exercise aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the emergency warning system.

The message delivered during the test will be a sample sent by the Department of Telecommunications Cell Broadcasting System and should be disregarded. There is no need for recipients to respond. The purpose of this exercise is to assess the nationwide emergency alert system implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority, with the objective of bolstering public safety and providing timely warnings during emergency situations.

This system will empower disaster management authorities to adequately prepare and alert the public in the event of calamities such as earthquakes, tsunamis, fires, flash floods, or even war. Mobile users located in areas prone to potential disasters will receive timely alerts through flash messages.

Assistant Director (Technology) at the Department of Telecom, Rajkumar, affirmed that the statewide test of the Emergency Alert System is scheduled for the October 12. He reassured the public, stating that there is no cause for alarm. The exercise is designed to enhance understanding and preparedness for potential disasters, particularly floods, expected in the near future.