Hoax calls surge triggers legal crackdown

Authorities identify 150 habitual offenders as April sees spike in fake calls

LAHORE:

The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has decided to initiate strict legal action against individuals making fake, hoax and irrelevant calls to the provincial emergency helpline 15, warning that misuse of the free service is hampering response to genuine emergencies.

A PSCA spokesperson said cases will be registered against those found abusing the system.

Authorities have identified the top 150 habitual hoax callers and have formally initiated legal proceedings against them.

The decision follows a sharp rise in non-serious calls overwhelming the helpline.

Official data shows that more than 724,000 fake or irrelevant calls were received in April 2026 alone, a figure described by officials as alarming.

"Such calls keep the emergency line engaged and can delay timely assistance to citizens facing real crises," the spokesperson said, adding that misuse of the service could endanger lives.

The authority has also been conducting monthly call-backs to around 200 individuals identified as making unnecessary calls, issuing warnings to promote responsible use of the helpline.

Officials reiterated that helpline 15 is a free emergency service provided by the Punjab government and that its misuse constitutes a legal offence. They warned that violators would face legal consequences.

The PSCA urged citizens to act responsibly and use the helpline strictly for emergencies to ensure prompt assistance for those in need.

The authority maintained that it remains fully operational and committed to providing immediate support to citizens through modern technology in emergency situations.