In a first-of-its-kind move in India, Bengaluru City Police have introduced a multilingual AI-powered upgrade to their emergency response system, aiming to make help more accessible during distress situations.

The enhanced system, integrated into Namma 112, uses advanced voice technology to allow callers to communicate in their preferred language without delay.

The initiative, named Multilingual Voice AI for Nationwide Key Interventions (VANKI), can interpret and translate conversations in real time, ensuring that emergency responders receive accurate information quickly.

Officials said the system is designed to address one of the biggest challenges during emergencies—language barriers. In a diverse city like Bengaluru, where people speak multiple languages, the inability to communicate clearly can delay response times.

With VANKI, callers can speak naturally in their own language, while the system instantly converts and relays the message to call handlers.

The AI-driven solution is expected to significantly improve response efficiency by reducing misunderstandings and enabling quicker decision-making.

It also enhances inclusivity, ensuring that migrants, tourists, and non-native speakers can access emergency services without hesitation.