Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday launched Chhattisgarh's biggest technology-driven emergency response upgrade by flagging off 400 next-generation Dial-112 vehicles and introducing mobile forensic science vans across the state. This initiative aims to reduce police response time and bring scientific investigation directly to crime scenes.
Upgraded Dial-112 Service
Shah inaugurated the upgraded 'Next Gen CG Dial-112' service at the Police Training School parade ground in Raipur. He stated that the integrated platform would strengthen emergency response, crime investigation, and citizen safety throughout Chhattisgarh, including remote and sensitive areas.
The upgraded Dial-112 network operates under the theme 'Ekke Number, Sabbo Bar' (One number for all). It integrates police, fire services, ambulance support, women and child helplines, disaster response, and highway emergency assistance under a single command structure.
Initially launched in Chhattisgarh in 2018 and limited to 16 districts, the service has now been expanded to all 33 districts. Citizens can seek help through calls, SMS, WhatsApp, email, chatbot, web portal, and the SOS-112 India app.
New Vehicles and Technology
The 400 newly inducted vehicles are equipped with smartphones, GPS, wireless radio systems, cameras, mobile NVR units, and solar backup systems. These features enable live monitoring, real-time tracking, and faster field communication during emergencies. Officials noted that the upgraded platform includes a centralised command-and-control centre, GIS-based monitoring, advanced vehicle tracking systems, SIP trunk technology, and automatic caller location identification to ensure quicker dispatch and response.
Mobile Forensic Science Vans
Shah also launched 32 mobile forensic science laboratory vans under the theme 'science on wheels – towards faster justice.' Each van, costing approximately Rs 65 lakh, is equipped with evidence collection and sealing kits, fingerprint detection systems, narcotics testing kits, ballistic examination tools, gunshot residue testing facilities, and digital forensic equipment.
The forensic vans are expected to significantly reduce delays in evidence collection and analysis by enabling preliminary scientific examination directly at crime scenes. Officials stated that this move would help preserve evidence more effectively and improve the quality and speed of investigations.
The event was attended by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Assembly Speaker Raman Singh, Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Vijay Sharma, and DGP Arun Dev.
