“Uttar Pradesh has introduced a new disaster helpline to enhance emergency response, offering 24/7 support for natural and man-made crises. Backed by the National Disaster Management Authority, the helpline integrates with local agencies to provide rapid aid, counseling, and resource coordination, aiming to mitigate disaster impacts and save lives across the state.”
Uttar Pradesh Unveils Dedicated Disaster Helpline for Rapid Crisis Support
In a significant step toward bolstering disaster preparedness, Uttar Pradesh has launched a dedicated disaster helpline to provide immediate assistance during emergencies. The toll-free number, accessible 24/7, connects residents to a network of crisis response services, including police, fire, ambulance, and disaster management teams. The initiative, aligned with the National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) framework under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, aims to streamline emergency responses across the state, which faces frequent challenges from floods, earthquakes, and industrial accidents.
The helpline, reachable at +91-9711077372, mirrors the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) contact model and integrates with the pan-India emergency number 112 for seamless coordination. It is designed to handle distress calls related to natural calamities like floods and cyclones, as well as human-caused disasters such as factory explosions or road accidents. Trained counselors and responders provide immediate guidance, crisis counseling, and referrals to local resources, ensuring a multi-faceted approach to disaster management.
Uttar Pradesh, one of India’s most disaster-prone states, has faced significant challenges in recent years. The state has seen devastating floods in districts like Gorakhpur and Varanasi, alongside industrial accidents, such as the 2023 chemical plant fire in Kanpur. The new helpline addresses these vulnerabilities by enabling faster communication between affected communities and response teams. It also supports real-time coordination with the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and NDRF units, which have saved over 1.55 lakh lives nationwide since their inception.
The initiative includes multilingual support to cater to Uttar Pradesh’s diverse population, ensuring accessibility for non-Hindi speakers. Callers can access emotional distress counseling, a feature inspired by models like the U.S.-based Disaster Distress Helpline, which has proven effective in post-disaster recovery. Additionally, the helpline connects to local NGOs like ADRA India, which has supported over 226,815 vulnerable households in UP and West Bengal during crises like Cyclone Amphan.
To enhance preparedness, the helpline also promotes community engagement through disaster risk reduction programs. These include training sessions on evacuation protocols and first aid, conducted in collaboration with agencies like Sphere India. The system’s integration with the 112 India Mobile App allows users to activate panic calls or the SHOUT feature, alerting nearby volunteers for immediate assistance, particularly for women and children.
Recent data underscores the urgency of such measures. In 2025, India reported over 69 deaths and Rs 400 crore in damages due to monsoon-related disasters in Himachal Pradesh alone, highlighting the need for robust systems. Uttar Pradesh’s helpline aims to reduce response times, which can be critical in saving lives during flash floods or industrial mishaps. The state government has also allocated funds from the SDRF to modernize fire services and support displaced communities, following recommendations from the 15th Finance Commission.
The helpline’s launch comes amid growing calls for stricter safety regulations following incidents like the Sigachi Industries explosion in Telangana, which claimed over 35 lives. Experts emphasize that proactive measures, such as early warning systems and community training, can significantly mitigate disaster impacts. Uttar Pradesh’s new helpline is a step toward building a resilient framework, empowering citizens to navigate crises with confidence.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government sources, including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and recent news reports. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to verify details with official channels for real-time updates.