As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, civilians on both sides of the border face unprecedented risks. Being Pakistani, keep note of these emergency helplines in Pakistan.
Recent ceasefire agreements offer hope, but the threat of renewed conflict looms.
In such uncertain times, knowing whom to call for help can save lives.
This blog compiles critical emergency contacts in Pakistan, categorized for quick access during war, shelling, or airstrikes. Whether you’re a resident, a traveler, or a concerned global citizen, bookmark this guide to stay informed and prepared.
Why Preparedness Matters?
The May 2025 Kashmir crisis underscores the urgency of preparedness. With civilian casualties, displaced families, and disrupted infrastructure, access to verified helplines ensures timely medical aid, rescue, and security. Misinformation thrives in chaos rely on trusted sources like the numbers below.
Emergency Helplines: Category-by-Category Guide
1. Medical Emergencies
For injuries, evacuations, and health crises:
- Edhi Ambulance: 115 (Nationwide, 24/7) – Free emergency response with trained staff.
- Rescue 1122: 1122 (Punjab/Karachi) – Disaster medical aid and fire rescue.
- Chhipa Ambulance: 1020 – Rapid response with oxygen support.
- Sehat Tahafuz Helpline: 1166 – Health emergencies, including trauma care.
Tip: Store these numbers under “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) in your phone.
2. Security & Terrorism Threats
Report suspicious activity, explosives, or attacks:
- Police Madadgar: 15 – Immediate crime/terrorism reporting.
- Pakistan Rangers: 1011 (Sindh) – Paramilitary support for border-area threats.
- Bomb Disposal Squad: 1332 – Report unexploded shells or devices.
- NACTA Counter-Terrorism: 1717 – Share intelligence on militant activity.
3. Rescue & Disaster Response
During shelling, fires, or collapsed buildings:
- Unified Helpline: 911 – Connects to police, fire, and ambulance services.
- Fire Brigade: 16 – Nationwide fire emergencies.
- NDMA Hotline: 051-111-157-157 – Federal disaster coordination (e.g., mass evacuations).
4. Essential Utilities
Power, water, and infrastructure crises:
- K-Electric (Karachi): 118 – Report outages or live wires.
- Karachi Water Board: 133 – Address sewage leaks or water shortages.
- Civil Defence: 241-2222 – Assess structural safety post-bombing.
5. Missing Persons & Vulnerable Groups
- Zainab Alert: 1099 – Report missing children.
- CPLC Karachi: 1102 – Track displaced family members.
6. Region-Specific Contacts
- Lahore: Police (*042-99212609*), Mayo Hospital (*042-99211100*)
- Islamabad: Police (*1715*), PIMS Hospital (*051-9261170*)
- Foreign Nationals: U.S. Embassy (*051-201-4000*), U.K. Consulate (*0300-200-4400*)
Safety Tips During Conflict
- Shelter: Stay indoors; basements or windowless rooms offer the best protection.
- Supplies: Stock 3 days’ worth of water, non-perishable food, and first-aid kits.
- Communication: Use SMS or apps like WhatsApp during network blackouts.
- Avoid Crowds: Markets and public transport hubs are potential targets.
- Verify Information: Trust only official sources—avoid social media rumors.
The Human Cost: Stories from the Ground
While numbers save lives, stories remind us of resilience:
- A Karachi family escaped shelling thanks to Edhi’s 115 responders.
- Rescue 1122 teams in Punjab evacuated 200+ civilians during cross-border strikes.
- Volunteers at Chhipa provided trauma counseling to displaced children.
How You Can Help?
- Share This List: Print and distribute in neighborhoods without internet access.
- Donate: Support Edhi Foundation or Rescue 1122 via their websites.
- Advocate Peace: Amplify voices like Malala Yousafzai calling for dialogue.
Conclusion: Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe
War spares no one civilians bear its heaviest toll. While diplomatic efforts continue, preparedness empowers individuals and communities. Save this guide, share it widely, and remember: in darkness, even a single helpline can be a beacon of hope.
Note: Verify numbers periodically via official government sites, as protocols may change. Bookmark NDMA Pakistan for real-time updates.
Let me know if you’d like to add personal anecdotes, infographics, or translation support for regional languages!
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