Punjab Expands Panic Buttons Across Province
Punjab has launched a panic button network across all 41 districts and two tehsils. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif digitally inaugurated the Punjab Integrated Safe City Network on Friday. She said the project will protect citizens from crime and fear.
Officials said joint efforts by police, the Crime Control Department and Safe Cities Authority reduced crime by an estimated 80 percent across the province.
Smart technology improves security
Safe Cities Authority Managing Director Ahsan Younas briefed the chief minister about the system. He said artificial intelligence supports surveillance and helps officers respond quickly.
The network includes intelligent monitoring and Emergency Helpline 15. It also provides traffic management, real-time command control and predictive policing.In addition, the system includes a Virtual Women Police Station and Child Safety Centre.Authorities will install 1,500 more panic buttons across Punjab. Every police station will receive the facility.
AI-enabled cameras can identify faces and detect weapons. Therefore, officers can act faster during emergencies and security threats.
Government plans wider coverage
Maryam Nawaz said the government plans to extend the project to every union council. She said Punjab now leads in technology, smart policing and predictive policing.The chief minister said every district became a safe city within two and a half years.According to her, more than 70 such areas once restricted public movement after sunset. However, she said no no-go area remains anywhere in Punjab.
She added that the riverine belt has recorded no serious crime or ransom kidnapping for about 10 months. The administration also organised a cricket tournament there.
The government plans Rs30 billion in development projects for the area. These projects will improve healthcare and public services.Meanwhile, the Virtual Police Station has helped 1.1 million women. The government will increase panic buttons to strengthen protection for women and children across the province.
