By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The Dial 112 emergency service has been operational in Bihar for the past two years, initiated by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and has been widely beneficial to the public. This service ensures that the Dial 112 team remains active and responsive in any kind of emergency, providing necessary support and assistance. In line with this commitment, the Bihar Police Headquarters has announced a new initiative specifically for women.
Starting from 15th September, Bihar Police will introduce the ‘Women Safe Travel Facility’ across the entire state through Dial 112. This service will offer assistance to women who feel unsafe or uncomfortable during their journeys, ensuring they reach their destinations safely and free of charge. Bihar will become the third state in India to implement such a facility.
Nirmal Kumar Azad, ADG of Technical Services and Fibre Department, provided details about this new service, which has been named ‘Mahila Surakshit Safar Suvidha’. He stated that from 15th September, women in Bihar who feel uneasy while travelling can access transportation assistance by dialling 112. This 24/7 service will be completely free of cost.
Azad further explained that if a woman wishes to travel at any time and feels the need for police support to ensure her safety, the service will be provided upon request. After dialling 112, the team will gather some essential information, and the Dial 112 team will maintain a technical connection with the woman throughout her journey.
Women seeking help during their journey will also be supported with C-DAC technical assistance. The Dial 112 team will stay in contact with the woman for the entire duration of the journey, regularly monitoring the security situation and keeping a close watch until she reaches her destination safely.
With the increased movement of women during festivals such as Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath, where they often travel late at night for shopping and other activities, the Bihar Police are launching this service to ensure safe travel. Azad added that this initiative will help women feel secure during their journeys, especially during these festive occasions.