Disaster Communication Systems in India
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in India are improving disaster communication systems. These systems aim to provide timely information to citizens during emergencies. A key initiative is the Integrated Alert System (SACHET), which uses the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) recommended by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This system is operational across all 36 States and Union Territories in India.
Integrated Alert System (SACHET)
SACHET sends disaster-related alerts via SMS. It targets specific geographical areas to ensure that affected citizens receive critical information. Since its launch, it has issued over 6,899 crore SMS alerts in more than 19 languages. These alerts cover natural disasters, weather warnings, and cyclonic events.
Cell Broadcast Technology
To enhance alert dissemination, the DoT is implementing Cell Broadcast (CB) technology. This system sends alerts in a broadcast mode to all mobile phones in the affected area. It allows for near real-time communication during emergencies such as tsunamis and earthquakes. The CB system is being developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT).
Testing Phase of the CB System
As part of the nationwide rollout, a testing phase for the CB system is underway. This phase will last for 2-4 weeks and will assess the system’s efficacy. During this time, test messages will be sent in English and Hindi to mobile handsets with CB test channels enabled. These messages will be sent multiple times to ensure the system functions correctly across the network.
Public Awareness and Cooperation
The DoT emphasises the importance of public cooperation during the testing phase. Recipients of test messages are advised to ignore them as no action is required. The messages serve solely for system validation purposes. Once operational, the CB system will disseminate alerts in multiple languages, ensuring wide public reach during actual emergencies.
Future Implications
The successful implementation of these systems will improve disaster management in India. With real-time alerts, citizens can respond quickly to emergencies. This initiative is important step towards enhancing national resilience against disasters.
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