PSCA to launch crackdown on hoax calls to helpline 15

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th May, 2026) The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has decided to launch a crackdown against individuals making fake, hoax and irrelevant calls to Emergency Helpline 15 after receiving over 724,000 such calls in April 2026.

According to a PSCA spokesperson, cases will be registered against those misusing the emergency helpline, adding that authorities have identified the top 150 hoax callers and initiated legal proceedings against them.

The spokesperson said that fake and unnecessary calls keep the helpline engaged, which can hinder timely response to genuine emergencies, terming the situation alarming.

He added that PSCA was also issuing callback warnings to around 200 irrelevant callers every month to raise awareness and promote responsible use of the service.

The spokesperson said that Emergency Helpline 15 is a free public service provided by the Punjab government and its misuse is a punishable offence under the law, warning that strict action would be taken against violators.

He appealed to citizens to use the helpline only in emergency situations to ensure prompt assistance for those in need, adding that PSCA remained fully operational round the clock to provide immediate response through modern technology.