Bihar has launched a new initiative called “Safe Travel” under the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) to enhance the safety of women traveling on the roads. This program will initially be implemented in six districts—Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, and Nalanda—with plans to expand statewide by September 15.
The “Safe Travel” initiative positions Bihar alongside Telangana and Haryana as the third state to offer such a comprehensive safety system for women. The program enables women to have their journeys monitored by the police, both physically and digitally, to ensure their safe arrival at their destinations.
Previously, ERSS had rolled out a nationwide initiative to provide immediate assistance through a single emergency number: 112. This system integrates services from Police, Fire, and Health departments into a streamlined, 24/7 response platform accessible across all States and Union Territories in India.
Here’s how the Safe Travel system works:
- Dial 112: Women travelers can call 112 before their journey begins. This allows police to track the vehicle and maintain contact throughout the trip.
- Vehicle Tracking: Details of the vehicle are recorded, and travelers can share their live location with the police. If the phone becomes unreachable, an emergency response vehicle will be dispatched to locate the traveler.
- Local Alerts: Police stations along the route are notified, and officers provide continuous support to the traveler, ensuring their safety.
The introduction of the Safe Travel initiative is timely as Bihar prepares for the festival season, a period when women are more likely to travel late at night. Nirmal Kumar Azad, Bihar’s Additional Director General of Police (Technical and Wireless), emphasized that this initiative will enhance the confidence of women travelers during these busy times.
Citizens can activate emergency responses through various means:
- Dial 112
- Press the power button three times on smartphones
- Long press the 5 or 9 key on feature phones
- Send an SMS to 112 or use the 112 India app
- Log into the ERSS website or email the local Emergency Response Centre
This new helpline represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and security of women traveling across Bihar.