ASDMA to implement the Cell Broadcast System across the State
Guwahati, Rongili Barta: The Cell Broadcast System (CBS), a state-of-the-art indigenous public warning system launched by the Government of India on May 2, 2026, is now fully operational across the State through 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, this 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 2nd May 2026, and the system has already proven effective during real disasters in several states. However in the states including Assam wherein, Model Code of Conduct was in force, the test was excluded. Hence now, the Government of Assam is planning to implement the activity across the State as instructed by the Government of India.
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 said CBS, the 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 situation and confusion among the public, the citizens are requested to be calm regarding the alerts and not to panic. These alerts are official messages issued only by authorized 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 would 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.
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. Further, the citizens are also requested to share this information with family members, especially the elderly and those living in remote areas, so that everyone understands the purpose of these alerts.