A special call center service for emergency situations in the Maldives has been launched, designating 911 as the emergency contact number.

Discussions with relevant institutions about establishing a short-code line to provide easy access to services for citizens in emergency situations have been ongoing for some time.

The service was launched last night in a ceremony held at Iskandar Koshi by the Minister of Home Affairs and Technology, Ali Ihsan.

Head of Police Command and Control, Superintendent of Police Ahmed Ali, said that previously, different numbers were used for emergency situations. With this, the challenges faced in receiving and providing services have now been resolved.

He added that 911 will now be the number to call in emergencies, and it is believed this will greatly facilitate the process.

“I believe that many services for citizens will be facilitated through one number. At the same time, the reason this work has come to full fruition is that one of our goals in our strategic plan is to provide call center and emergency services quickly and easily,” he said.

The proposal to establish a national helpline for citizens to call one number for safety and security services in emergency situations was submitted to the Social Council by the Ministry of Health.