Foreign nationals in Bangladesh can now access emergency services by calling the national helpline 999, announced Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam. The IGP has directed the relevant authorities to take necessary steps to ensure seamless emergency assistance for foreigners, according to a press release from the Police Headquarters on Thursday. Under the new directive, foreign tourists, expatriates, and individuals working with diplomatic missions, UN agencies, and international development organizations can call 999 in English. The service is accessible through SIM cards from Bangladeshi mobile operators or landline phones, providing access to police, fire, and ambulance services. IGP orders to ensure transparency, accountability of 999 calls To support English-speaking callers, a sufficient number of dedicated duty desks have been set up, operating in three shifts every day. The service, which became operational on January 12, requires callers seeking English assistance to press ‘2’ after dialing 999. National Emergency Service 999 resumes after 8-day closure: Police HQ

The government has reassured diplomats stationed in Dhaka that it will provide all necessary support to foreign nationals living in Bangladesh to deal with coronavirus.