Multiple smartphones users across the country were taken by surprise after they received a message ‘Emergency Alert: Severe’ at around 12.20 pm on Friday. The alert message was sent by Cell Broadcasting System by Department of Telecommunication, Government of India.
The government has been testing its emergency alert system in collaboration with telecom service providers to enhance public safety. Mobile phone users received a test alert message accompanied by a loud beep, prompting them to interact with it by pressing "Ok." The system is crucial during critical situations like natural disasters and has also proved valuable in delivering real-time updates during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling effective communication and informed decision-making.