The number 119 which could be dialled from any telephone service including mobile phones would be directly connected to the IGP's Command Room. Public Security, Law and Order Ministry Secretary Thilak Ranaviraja and IGP Chandra Fernando were present during the inauguration. Director IGP Command and Police Information Division SP Luxman Kaluarachchi said though the number was launched yesterday they expect it to function properly only by next January.
"We have deployed 10 separate telephone lines. We run trials occasionally. In future we hope to add more lines and set up substations countrywide," the Director said. According to Mr. Kaluarachchi anybody can call in an emergency but he requested them to refrain from giving nuisance calls.
"In future we plan to develop this service and include Ambulance and Fire Brigade services," he said.
