Madadgar-15: Karachi’s Lifeline in Emergencies

By Our Correspondent

KARACHI: In a sprawling and fast-paced metropolis like Karachi, where millions of people commute through busy roads and neighbourhoods every day, timely access to emergency assistance can make a crucial difference. In many situations, a quick call to the police can prevent crime, save lives or provide immediate help to citizens in distress. One of the most important public safety services available to residents of the city is Madadgar-15, the emergency helpline operated by the Sindh Police.

By dialing the simple three-digit number 15, citizens can instantly contact the police to report crimes, accidents, suspicious activities or other urgent situations requiring law-enforcement assistance. The helpline has become an essential bridge between the public and the police, providing a fast and accessible way for people to seek help.

According to SSP Hafeez-Ur-Rehman Bugti, the average police response time to an emergency call is generally between 10 to 15 minutes in most parts of the city. However, the response may take longer when police units have to reach remote or outskirt areas of Karachi due to distance or traffic conditions.

“The system functions round the clock and serves as the first point of contact between the public and law-enforcement agencies,” said DSP Tariq Akhtar Memon, who is also in charge of the Madadgar-15 Call Centre located on Shahrah-e-Faisal near Karachi Airport.

He said the call centre operates in three shifts, ensuring uninterrupted service throughout the day and night. Both male and female telephone operators are deployed to receive calls from citizens across Karachi. These operators record details of the incident and immediately transmit the information to the relevant police stations and Madadgar-15 patrol vehicles.

According to officials, Madadgar-15 mobile units are currently stationed at 106 locations across Karachi to ensure a swift response to emergencies. As soon as a complaint is registered, the nearest patrol vehicle is dispatched to the location to provide assistance.

Officials say the call centre receives thousands of calls every day from different parts of the city. Incharge Training, Shabbir Ahmed, said that in January alone more than 200,000 calls were attended by the call centre staff. Many of these calls relate to street crimes, traffic accidents, suspicious activities and requests for police assistance.

Beyond responding to crime-related emergencies, Madadgar-15 also plays an important role in helping citizens locate missing persons, providing assistance in cases of domestic violence, and guiding callers to the appropriate police authorities for further action.

However, officials say the call centre also receives a considerable number of prank or unnecessary calls, which consume valuable time and resources. Staff members urge the public to use the helpline responsibly so that genuine emergencies can receive immediate attention.

Responsible use of Madadgar-15 can significantly enhance its effectiveness, ensuring that it continues to serve as a reliable and vital lifeline for the people of Karachi.