Punjab Safe Cities App: Offline Access & Inclusive Safety Features Unveiled

Punjab Safe Cities Authority’s Public Safety Mobile App Can Now be Used Without Internet

The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has launched a significant update to its Public Safety App, aimed at broadening citizen protection and making emergency services more accessible than ever before. Excitingly, for the next 30 days, users will be able to access the app entirely free of data charges, thanks to a special agreement with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, as announced by Managing Director Muhammad Ahsan Younis.

Enhanced Support for Vulnerable Individuals

This latest iteration of the app champions inclusivity, specifically catering to vulnerable populations. This includes individuals with visual, hearing, and speech impairments, as well as epilepsy patients and those facing mental health challenges. To ensure seamless communication during emergencies, the PSCA has even onboarded agents proficient in sign language.

Innovative Safety Features

The app introduces a suite of new features designed to offer peace of mind. A lock screen option now allows users to pre-designate their disability and a close relative’s contact, facilitating rapid identification and rescue. Other groundbreaking additions include gesture-based SOS alerts, automatic fall detection for epilepsy patients, accident alerts, family tracking functionalities, and crucial location-based flood notifications.

Expanded Emergency Connectivity

Connecting with help is now more streamlined. Users can directly access various emergency helplines through calls, live chat, or video calls. The app also boasts comprehensive integration with essential services such as the fire brigade, ambulance services, Motorway Police, Punjab Highway Patrol, and various disaster response agencies, ensuring a coordinated and swift response.

Simplified Complaint Tracking and Crime Reporting

Beyond immediate emergencies, the platform empowers citizens with tools for proactive safety and civic engagement. Users can now easily follow up on their emergency complaints, check e-challans, report crimes using the “Safety Eye” feature, and register details of missing or found children. Furthermore, it provides direct links to the Punjab Chief Minister’s Portal, the Inspector General Police Complaint Cell, and the Police Khidmat Markaz, fostering greater accountability and access to public services.

A Vision for Inclusive Safety

Available in both Urdu and English, the Public Safety App is a testament to accessible and inclusive design. Managing Director Younis emphasized that this advanced technology will significantly bolster the protection of women, children, the elderly, minorities, and persons with disabilities, promising faster rescue and more effective relief services across Punjab.

The Android and iOS versions of the application are readily available for download.