Govt publicized some moble numbers to help migrants but lot of peoples made complaints to Cross Town News regarding such a big lapse at this crucial period of time &
Pertinent to mention here that it is a big truth that out of six numbers called four were found but two not picked up the calls is a big lapse on the part of concerned officers.
The numbers, which did not picked up the calls are 9419269332 and 9797966636 & which were found switched off at 5.47 PM to 5.52 PM on today are 7889959803, 9906442760,6006011170 & 9078745412.
Emergency Helplines: A System in Need of Urgent Repair
India’s emergency response system faces a critical challenge as numerous helpline numbers remain non-functional or unresponsive, putting citizens’ lives at risk during emergencies.
Current State of Emergency Helplines
Recent surveys indicate that up to 40% of emergency helpline numbers across major cities either remain switched off or go unanswered during critical hours. This includes crucial services like domestic violence helplines, suicide prevention hotlines, and medical emergency numbers.
Key Issues Identified
- Technical Infrastructure
- Outdated telecommunication systems
- Insufficient phone lines to handle call volume
- Poor maintenance of existing infrastructure
- Human Resource Problems
- Staff shortages in emergency response centers
- Inadequate training for operators
- High turnover rates among helpline staff
Impact on Public Safety
The dysfunction of these emergency services has led to several documented cases where timely help couldn’t reach those in need. Medical emergencies, domestic violence incidents, and mental health crises have worsened due to non-responsive helplines.
Recommended Solutions
Immediate Actions Needed
- Regular audit of all emergency numbers
- Implementation of automated monitoring systems
- Establishment of backup response centers
Long-term Reforms
- Modernization of telecommunication infrastructure
- Standardized training programs for operators
- Integration of various helplines under a unified emergency response system
Role of Regulatory Bodies
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and relevant government departments must:
- Conduct regular performance audits
- Enforce strict penalties for non-functional services
- Implement better oversight mechanisms
Public Awareness and Action
Citizens can contribute by:
- Reporting non-functional helplines to authorities
- Maintaining records of failed emergency calls
- Filing RTI applications for information on helpline performance
Conclusion
The current state of emergency helplines demands immediate attention from authorities. Without swift action, this systemic failure continues to put countless lives at risk. Regular monitoring, accountability measures, and infrastructure upgrades are essential to ensure these critical services function effectively.
