The cell broadcast system (CBS), a state-of-the-art indigenous public warning system launched by the central government a month back, is now fully operational across Assam through the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA).
Developed by C-DOT under the Department of Telecommunications in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Ministry of Home Affairs, the system enables authorities to send instant, geo-targeted emergency alerts directly to all mobile phones in a specific area.
The CBS has been made available for pan India implementation including Assam.
“A nationwide test was conducted on May 2, 2026, and the system has already proven effective during real disasters in several states. However, in the states, including Assam, wherein the Model Code of Conduct was in force, the test was excluded,” a statement from ASDMA issued on Wednesday, said.
“Hence now, the Government of Assam is planning to implement the activity across the state as instructed by the Government of India,” it said.
The CBS involves dissemination of critical and time sensitive messages for impending disaster to all mobile devices within a designated geographical area, irrespective of whether the recipients are residents or visitors.
“During the implementation of the CBS, citizens may receive emergency alerts on their mobile devices pertaining to disasters. The CBS alerts are highly sensitive, which trigger a loud audio alarm/notification on mobile handsets for approximately 30 seconds whenever received. Hence, to avoid panic situations and confusion among the public, the citizens are requested to be calm regarding the alerts and not to panic,” the authority said.
“The alerts are official messages issued only by authorised government agencies during genuine emergencies such as extreme weather conditions like storms, heavy rain, lightning, cyclones, floods, flash floods, or other disasters such as gas leaks. The alert will appear as a pop-up message on one’s mobile phone accompanied by a distinctive loud tone and vibration. On supported handsets, the message would also be read aloud,” it informed.
The CBS system is far more reliable than traditional SMS alerts. It works even during network congestion, reaches all mobile users in the targeted area (including roaming users). It supports messages in multiple languages and is functional across 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks.
Assam State Disaster Management Authority To Implement Cell Broadcast System Across State
