In a significant step towards digital policing and citizen convenience, the Gurgaon Police on Friday launched a dedicated 24x7 WhatsApp chatbot service. This innovative initiative allows residents to access a wide range of police services, from locating the nearest police station to reporting emergencies, all by simply sending a "Hello" message to the number 95999 64777.
A New Year Gift for Gurgaon Residents
Police Commissioner Vikas Arora announced the service, calling it a "New Year gift from our side to the residents." He revealed that Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Karan Goel, the brain behind the project, will head the monitoring of the chatbot. The primary aim is to provide quick access to essential information and assistance, reducing the need for citizens to physically visit police stations for routine queries or when in urgent need.
The service is designed to be a lifeline for those who are lost, stranded, or require immediate help but are unsure of where to find the nearest police assistance. By leveraging the ubiquitous WhatsApp platform, the police have made critical services accessible with just a few taps on a smartphone.
How the WhatsApp Chatbot Works
Once a user sends the initiating "Hello" message on WhatsApp, the automated chatbot springs into action. It first prompts the user to select a preferred language and then presents a menu of available services. The key features integrated into the system include:
- Locate Nearest Police Station: Users can find details of the closest police station, including specialized units like women's police stations and cyber police stations. The service provides the name of the officer-in-charge, contact numbers, email IDs, and a direct Google Maps location link.
- Emergency Helpline Access: The chatbot offers quick access to crucial emergency numbers, including the national emergency number 112.
- Cybercrime and Lost Phone Support: It provides a direct link to the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal for reporting lost or stolen mobile phones.
- Feedback and Safety Advisories: Citizens can submit feedback or complaints regarding police services. The bot also serves as a resource for safety advisories on cyber security, women's safety, and general public safety.
Enhancing Public Safety in the Digital Age
This move by the Gurgaon Police signifies a major shift towards proactive, citizen-centric policing using technology. The WhatsApp chatbot acts as a force multiplier, enabling the police department to handle queries efficiently and round-the-clock. It empowers citizens by putting vital information and a direct line for help in their pockets, potentially improving response times in distress situations.
The launch underscores the police force's commitment to adapting to modern communication trends to serve the public better. By simplifying access to police services and information, the initiative is expected to build greater public trust and foster a stronger sense of security among Gurgaon's residents.
