Delhi Launches Unified Emergency Helpline 112

Delhi is set to overhaul its emergency response framework with the launch of a unified emergency helpline number, 112. Announcing the initiative, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the move aligns the national capital with the Centre’s vision of a single, easily accessible emergency number for all citizens.

Alignment with National Emergency Framework

The Chief Minister stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs has declared 112 as India’s national emergency number. In line with this directive, Delhi will integrate all existing emergency helplines into a single access point. Once operational, residents will no longer need to remember multiple numbers for police, fire or medical emergencies.

Multiple Access Modes for Citizens

Under the new system, citizens will be able to seek help not only through voice calls but also via a mobile application, SMS, panic buttons and online platforms. This ensures accessibility even for those unable to speak during emergencies. Depending on the situation, police, fire services, ambulances and disaster management agencies can be alerted simultaneously through one alert, reducing critical response time.

Technology-Driven Emergency Response System

The upgraded Emergency Response Support System, known as ERSS 2.0, will function through a centralised Public Safety Answering Point. A modern control-room dashboard will enable real-time monitoring of incidents, automatic detection of the caller’s location, and instant identification of the nearest response vehicle. This automation eliminates delays caused by manual location sharing and supports faster dispatch, particularly during the golden hour.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• 112 is India’s designated single national emergency number.
• ERSS integrates police, fire and medical services under one platform.
• Automatic caller location detection is a key feature of ERSS 2.0.
• The golden hour refers to the first 60 minutes after an emergency.

Phased Implementation and Accountability

The Chief Minister clarified that the project will be implemented in phases. The first stage involves integrating all existing emergency numbers into 112, followed by technical upgrades, public awareness campaigns and training of call handlers. Continuous monitoring will allow alternative vehicles to be deployed if delays occur, strengthening accountability and ensuring faster, coordinated emergency response across Delhi.