The Sri Lanka Police will introduce a special WhatsApp facility from tomorrow (10) to enable members of the deaf community to contact the Police and lodge complaints during emergencies, the Police Media Division announced.
Until a separate short telephone number is introduced for persons with hearing impairments to access the 119 emergency service, the facility will be available via WhatsApp through the telephone number 011-2809980.
To use the service, users must first save 011-2809980 on their mobile phone and make an Audio Call to the number via WhatsApp. After the call is disconnected, a link received on the mobile phone should be accessed through WhatsApp. Users can then select “Join Browser” and proceed to “Join Meeting” to connect with the 119 Emergency Call Centre.
A Police officer with knowledge of sign language will respond to the video call and obtain the necessary information. Based on the information provided, officers at the nearest Police station will take prompt action regarding the reported emergency or complaint.
The Sri Lanka Police has introduced this special initiative to improve accessibility and safety for the deaf community. The facility was inaugurated on September 3, coinciding with the 160th Police Day, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
The Police confirmed that all arrangements have been completed to activate the new service from tomorrow (10).
