Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 06 April 2024
The Indian government’s initiative to streamline emergency response services has culminated in the launch of a single helpline number, 112, aimed at providing prompt assistance during crises.
Initially introduced as ERSS-112 in 2019 within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this initiative offers residents a centralized platform to access emergency services swiftly. ERSS, or Emergency Response Support System, integrates various agencies including Police (100), Fire (101), Health (102), and Disaster Management under one umbrella.
Citizens facing distressful situations can avail themselves of assistance by dealing 112 from their phones, pressing the power button thrice on smartphones, or long-pressing the “5” or “9” key on regular phones to activate a panic call to the dedicated DIAL 112 Control Room. Moreover, SOS alerts can be transmitted via email or through the 112 India mobile app, downloadable for free from Google Play Store and Apple Store.
The heart of this system lies in the dedicated DIAL 112 Control Room, manned by trained call-takers and dispatchers, equipped to handle emergency requests efficiently. Call logs are meticulously maintained digitally, ensuring seamless coordination with Emergency Response Vehicles and Control Rooms of various departments to extend aid to victims promptly.
Highlighting its technological advancements, the ERSS introduces the 112 India mobile app, empowering users to make distress calls effortlessly. Notably, the app incorporates a unique SHOUT feature, activating alerts to registered volunteers in proximity to the distressed individual for immediate assistance.
The public is encouraged to voluntarily register on the app and leverage ERSS 112 in times of crisis, ensuring a unified and rapid response to emergencies across the nation.