Soon the residents of Delhi will be able to access multiple emergency services by dialling a unified helpline 112.
Delhi Launching Unified Emergency Helpline
Prior to this the residents had to dial multiple numbers but now the Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta, announced the single emergency number, saying the Ministry of Home Affairs declared ‘112’ as the national emergency number and in line with this, Delhi is moving towards its implementation.
Further, Gupta said, “Depending on the nature of the emergency, the police, fire services, ambulance and disaster management agencies can be alerted simultaneously by dialling 112,”.
She added, “Assistance can be sought not only by phone but also via a mobile app, an emergency button, SMS, and online platforms, ensuring that even if a citizen is unable to speak, they can still send a distress signal with ease.”
This unified helpline system which is named as ERSS 2.0, will feature a modern dashboard in the control room where details like real-time monitoring of where an incident has occurred, which vehicle has been dispatched, and how long it will take to reach the site will be available.
ERSS 2.0 – A Modern, Unified Signal-Handling System
When it comes to the ERSS 2.0, it is a modern, unified signal-handling system that will receive all emergency calls, mobile app alerts, panic button activations, SMS and web alerts at a single Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP).
Gupta further said, “As soon as a call or emergency alert is received, the system automatically detects the caller’s location, eliminating the need for the victim to explain where they are. Once the location is identified, the nearest police vehicle, ambulance, or fire tender is immediately dispatched from the control room.”
This approach is very helpful as it saves crucial time during the golden hour (the first 60 minutes) and ensures faster assistance.
Basically, a single call will alert the police, fire, and medical services simultaneously, significantly reducing delays in emergency response, under this system said the chief minister.
If there is a delay then an alternative vehicle can be deployed immediately this way they can ensure continuous oversight and enhances accountability.
This entire plan will be implemented in phases said Gupta and in its first phase, all existing emergency numbers will be integrated into 112.
In the following phases they will go for technical upgrades, public awareness campaigns, training of call-takers and, finally, evaluation of the system.
