Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif took a significant step forward in enhancing women’s safety and access to justice with the inauguration of Pakistan’s first-ever virtual women police station in Lahore. Named “Mari Awaz, Maryam Nawaz,” this pioneering initiative aims to provide a safe and accessible platform for women to seek assistance and report crimes. Alongside this landmark inauguration, the Chief Minister also unveiled various safety initiatives aimed at bolstering security measures across Lahore, further solidifying Punjab’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and protection of its citizens.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated Pakistan’s first virtual women police station, “Mari Awaz, Maryam Nawaz,” in Lahore, alongside unveiling various safety initiatives. The virtual station aims to provide women with a safe platform to report crimes and seek assistance through innovative digital features. Additionally, the deployment of 100 emergency Panic-15 buttons across Lahore and plans for a city-wide free Wi-Fi project underscore Punjab’s commitment to enhancing public safety and connectivity. Furthermore, Lahore’s adoption of artificial intelligence for traffic monitoring showcases its dedication to leveraging technology for efficient urban management. These initiatives highlight Punjab’s proactive approach to addressing safety concerns and promoting inclusivity and empowerment in the community.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Punjab Safe City Authority headquarters in Lahore, was attended by government officials, law enforcement representatives, women’s rights advocates, and members of civil society. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to address the unique safety concerns faced by women in society. She reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment where women feel empowered to assert their rights and seek recourse against any form of harassment or violence.
The virtual women police station represents a groundbreaking approach to law enforcement and victim support, leveraging digital platforms to overcome barriers to access and streamline the reporting process for women. Through innovative features such as the 15 Call, Women Safety App with Live Chat, Video Call feature, Punjab Police App, and Safe City Web Portal, women can now connect with law enforcement authorities and access support services with ease. This initiative reflects Punjab’s proactive stance in harnessing technology to bridge gaps in the criminal justice system and ensure prompt response to incidents affecting women’s safety.
In addition to launching the virtual women police station, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced the deployment of 100 new emergency Panic-15 buttons across Lahore. These panic buttons, strategically placed in public spaces and high-traffic areas, serve as a direct link to law enforcement agencies, enabling individuals to quickly summon assistance in case of emergencies. The introduction of these panic buttons is part of Punjab’s broader efforts to enhance public safety infrastructure and provide immediate assistance to those in need.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif unveiled plans for a comprehensive free Wi-Fi project covering 50 locations across Lahore. The initiative aims to enhance connectivity and digital access for residents, enabling them to stay connected and access essential services online. By providing free Wi-Fi in key public areas, the government seeks to promote digital inclusion and empower communities with greater access to information and resources.
In a remarkable display of technological innovation, Lahore has emerged as a trailblazer in the region by implementing artificial intelligence (AI) for monitoring traffic violations. Leveraging AI-powered surveillance systems, the city has enhanced its traffic management capabilities, enabling real-time monitoring and enforcement of traffic laws. This proactive approach to traffic management not only improves road safety but also demonstrates Lahore’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge solutions for addressing urban challenges.
The Virtual Women Police Station represents a significant milestone in Punjab’s ongoing efforts to enhance gender equality, promote women’s empowerment, and ensure their safety and security in public spaces. By leveraging technology to provide accessible and responsive support services, the government aims to create an enabling environment where women can exercise their rights without fear or hesitation. As Punjab continues to invest in innovative solutions and safety initiatives, it reinforces its commitment to building inclusive and resilient communities where every individual can thrive.