Daily News Analysis

Cell Broadcast (CB) system

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India is testing an indigenous Cell Broadcast (CB) system developed by C-DOT to deliver real-time alerts during natural and man-made disasters. The system complements SMS alerts by broadcasting messages to mobile users in affected areas instantly. It’s based on the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) and is already active in all 36 States/UTs via the SACHET platform. Test messages in English and Hindi will be sent over the next 2–4 weeks; no action is needed by recipients

What is Cell Broadcast System for Disaster Alerts in India

  • The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) are testing an indigenous Cell Broadcast (CB) system developed by Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT).It is a technology used by mobile network operators to send text messages simultaneously to all mobile users in a specific geographic area.

    It aims to deliver real-time, geo-targeted emergency alerts during disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, lightning strikes, and industrial hazards.

Key Features:

  • CB technology broadcasts messages simultaneously to all mobile users in a specific geographical area.

    Faster and more reliable than SMS during network congestion.

    Supports multiple Indian languages, ensuring inclusive communication.

    Works alongside the existing Integrated Alert System (SACHET) which has sent over 6,899 crore SMS alerts across all 36 States and UTs.

    SACHET follows the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) recommended by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Purpose:

  • Rapid Dissemination of Alerts: To broadcast emergency and critical information instantly to all mobile users within a specific geographical area.

    Disaster Management: To provide timely warnings during natural disasters (earthquakes, tsunamis, cyclones, lightning strikes) and man-made emergencies (chemical leaks, industrial hazards).

    Enhance Public Safety: To ensure citizens receive alerts promptly to take necessary precautions and reduce casualties and damages.

    Overcome Network Congestion: Unlike SMS, Cell Broadcast sends messages simultaneously to many users without overloading the network.

Significance:

  • Real-time Communication: Enables near-instantaneous transmission of alerts to targeted regions.

    Geographical Targeting: Alerts reach only those in the affected area, minimizing unnecessary panic elsewhere.

    Multilingual Support: Broadcasts messages in multiple Indian languages, making communication inclusive.

    Indigenous Development: Developed by India’s C-DOT, ensuring control, security, and customization to local needs.

    Complementary to Existing Systems: Works alongside SMS-based systems like SACHET to strengthen the country’s disaster response infrastructure.

    Network Efficiency: Broadcast mode avoids delays and message failures common in congested networks, especially during emergencies.


 

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