In social media, it is easy to forward messages, and people receive them quickly through the Internet. Today morning, mobile users in Nagpur and other parts of India received alarming messages on WhatsApp.
The messages were emergency alerts stating that they were a test from the Department of Telecommunication, Government of India, on July 20, 2023.
Amidst heavy rainfall across diverse regions, these alerts were dispatched, leading to perplexity among the public. Many people searched online to find the correct information and discovered that the alerts were meant to inform them about severe weather conditions.
As per the report from the Nagpur Today, one person pointed out that there might not be a reason to panic, as the test could simulate emergency situations caused by severe storms and natural disasters.
According to reports, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India conducted drive tests at 20 locations across the country to assess the network quality of cellular mobile service providers for voice and data services.
Though the initial alert caught people off guard, it is important to understand that these tests are part of disaster alertness strategies by the government.
The evaluation of alert systems, network infrastructure, and public response mechanisms is carried out by the Department of Telecommunication during these tests.
It also helps users become familiar with emergency alerts, promoting overall disaster awareness and preparedness, as per the report.
The Telecom Ministry clarified that the alerts were merely a test and there were no reports of any imminent threats.
The messages were transmitted nationwide at 10:20 AM, and subsequent alerts were sent at 10:25 AM and 10:31 AM, all confirming that they were tests from the Government of India.