Context:
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)’s Cell Broadcast Alert System (CBAS) has been tested in recent weeks to send out mass alerts when natural disasters strike, but it did not do so during the recent Delhi tremors.
About Cell Broadcast Alert System (CBAS):
- A cutting-edge technology that empowers us to disseminate critical and time-sensitive disaster management messages to all mobile devices within specified geographical areas, regardless of whether the recipients are residents or visitors.
- Aims to bolster emergency communication during disasters and prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens.
- Common applications – Delivering
- emergency alerts such as severe weather warnings (e.g., Tsunamis, Flash Floods, Earthquakes),
- public safety messages,
- evacuation notices,
- other critical information
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA):
- Apex body for Disaster Management in India
- Headed by the Prime Minister
- Mandated by the Disaster Management Act, 2005
- NDMA is mandated to lay down the policies, plans and guidelines for Disaster Management.
Source: The Hindu