Did you receive this Emergency Alert’ on your phone today? Here’s what it means

Emergency alert tests are conducted using cell broadcast systems to assess effectiveness and identify potential problems. Many smartphone users across India received an “emergency alert” on Friday afternoon with a loud beep. The notification was a test message sent by the department of telecommunication to check the new emergency alert system developed by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The message informed recipients that it was a test and that no action was required. The flash message was sent between 12 noon and 12:45pm.

“This is a SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE sent through the Cell Broadcasting System by the Department of Telecommunication, Government of India. Please ignore this message as no action is required from your end. This message has been sent to the TEST Pan-India Emergency Alert System being implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority. It aims to enhance public safety and provide timely alerts during emergencies,” the flash message read.

The NDMA is using this test to assess the effectiveness of the alert system and to identify any potential problems. “These tests will be performed from time to time in various regions across the country to gauge the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency alert broadcasting capabilities of the systems in place of various Mobile Operators and Cell Broadcast System,” a statement by the department of telecommunications dated September 21st read.