Punjab has started installing emergency panic buttons and cameras on major overhead bridges as part of efforts to improve public safety and provide faster assistance during emergencies. The initiative is being implemented by the Punjab Safe City Authority, with panic buttons initially installed at the overhead bridges of the College for Women University and Kinnaird College. The authority plans to extend the system to other important overhead bridges in the province in subsequent phases. The technology will allow people facing harassment or other emergencies to directly contact the Safe City control room for assistance.
According to a Safe City spokesperson, students and women will be able to use the panic buttons when they face harassment or any other emergency situation while crossing the designated overhead bridges. Once a button is pressed, the user will be connected directly with the Safe City control room, where officials can immediately review the situation and coordinate assistance. The system is intended to provide an accessible emergency communication channel at locations where people may require immediate police support. The initiative forms part of Punjab’s broader use of technology-based systems for public safety and emergency response.
The planned installation of cameras alongside panic buttons will also allow authorities to monitor the overhead bridges through live surveillance. Safe City officials said cameras will support more effective monitoring of these locations, while additional overhead bridges will gradually be connected with the Safe City system. The Punjab Safe Cities Authority operates integrated command, control and communication infrastructure designed to provide real-time information, emergency response and surveillance capabilities for public safety. Its existing system includes cameras covering public places, key infrastructure, roads and other locations.
The overhead bridge initiative adds another layer to Punjab’s expanding technology-based safety infrastructure. Earlier in 2026, the Punjab Safe Cities Authority also introduced a QR-based panic button system for public transport, allowing passengers to access emergency calls, video calls, live chat and location-sharing features through the Safe City system. The province has also expanded the use of panic buttons at public places and sensitive locations to facilitate faster emergency responses. The latest project focuses specifically on overhead bridges, with the initial installations at College for Women University and Kinnaird College expected to be followed by deployments at other major bridges in phases.
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