A new emergency hotline tailored for Tamil-speaking individuals in the northern and eastern regions of the country has been launched today, operating 24/7. 

Distinguished from the existing 119 service, this hotline is staffed exclusively by fluent Tamil speakers.

Residents in areas surrounding Vavuniya can access this service at any time. The police media spokesperson Nihal Thalduwa, highlighted its importance in ensuring equal rights for Tamil speakers to access emergency services. 

This initiative follows the president’s emphasis on the significance of Tamil-speaking individuals being able to communicate emergencies in their mother tongue.

While open to speakers of all languages, the hotline is primarily intended for Tamil-speaking communities in the region. It stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable access to essential services.