Phones buzz nationwide as India tests new disaster alert system
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, May 2, 2026: Mobile phones across India lit up with a loud alert tone on Saturday as the Centre conducted a nationwide test of its new disaster warning system, reassuring citizens that the message was only a drill.
The alert, labelled “Extremely Severe Alert,” was part of the official rollout of an indigenous Cell Broadcast-based emergency communication system designed to instantly notify people during disasters. Authorities clarified that no action was required from the public.
The system was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. Developed by Centre for Development of Telematics, the platform—named SACHET—operates on globally accepted alerting standards and is now active across all states and Union Territories.
Officials said the new system marks a significant improvement over traditional SMS alerts. Unlike standard messages, Cell Broadcast notifications override silent and do-not-disturb settings, ensuring that critical warnings reach users immediately with a loud alarm and on-screen alert.
India’s disaster management authorities have already issued billions of SMS alerts in multiple languages over the years, but the upgraded technology aims to deliver faster, more targeted, and more effective communication during emergencies such as cyclones, floods, and earthquakes.
The government said the system is expected to strengthen public safety by enabling real-time dissemination of life-saving information during crises.