Callers to Hong Kong’s 999 hotline will be able to send real-time audio and visual information to emergency call centres using instant messaging apps in 2028, Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung has said.
The security minister revealed the timeline for the upgrade on Thursday, a day after Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced in his latest policy address that three new functions were set to be introduced to enhance 999 call services.
Alongside providing “real-time audio, image and video data” to help centres appraise situations, the new features will ensure crucial data can be instantly sent to the Fire Services Department to help fast-track rescue efforts.