The UAE Cabinet recently approved technical regulations aimed at improving emergency communications in vehicles through the e-Call system. This system, already installed in some vehicles, works by automatically sending an emergency message to the police when sensors detect a serious accident. The message includes details such as the vehicle model, location, fuel type, and number of passengers present. The goal of this update is to reduce response times for emergency services by 40%, ultimately decreasing the death toll on the roads by 2 to 10% and lowering serious injury cases by 2 to 15%.
In order to stay informed about the latest news, individuals can follow KT on WhatsApp channels. The e-Call system also ensures a rapid response time of just four minutes to emergency calls. Despite these advancements, the number of fatalities on UAE roads saw a 3% increase last year compared to 2022, with 352 road fatalities recorded in 2023. However, this figure was still 8% lower than the 381 fatalities in 2021. The e-Call system, also known as Fazaa, was developed by the UAE Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority in collaboration with police authorities.
When an accident report is sent through the e-Call system, officers in the operations room can establish a call to speak to passengers and check if they are conscious. A rescue team is then dispatched to the accident site in a matter of minutes. Previously, a similar feature called AML (Advanced Machine Location) was introduced by Dubai Police, enabling mobile phones to notify the police after a crash. The key difference between AML and the e-Call system is that in the case of AML, a passenger needed to dial 999 for the information to be transmitted, whereas the e-Call system can automatically make the call or be activated manually with the push of a button.
The introduction of the e-Call system represents a significant step forward in enhancing road safety and emergency response capabilities in the UAE. By leveraging technology to improve communication and decrease response times, the system aims to save lives and reduce the severity of injuries resulting from road accidents. As advancements like the e-Call system continue to be implemented and refined, the UAE is making important strides in ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents and road users. With a focus on innovation and collaboration between government bodies, the UAE is setting a positive example for other countries looking to enhance their emergency response systems.
