In a significant move to enhance accessibility, foreign tourists and diplomatic missions in Bangladesh can now access emergency services in English by dialing 999.
The notification, signed by Additional DIG Mohammad Tabarak Ullah, head of the 999 service, confirmed that this facility is available to various diplomatic missions, UN agencies, development cooperation organizations, and both domestic and foreign citizens residing or travelling in Bangladesh.
Effective since January 12, the service enables users to call using SIM cards or landlines provided by Bangladeshi mobile operators and receive immediate assistance for police, fire, and ambulance emergencies.
Following directives from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), dedicated duty desks have been established and are operational across three daily shifts to ensure seamless support for English-speaking callers.
Officials emphasized that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to streamline emergency response for all residents and visitors in Bangladesh.