The Next Generation 112 system will transform emergency communications by supporting video, real-time text, location data and automatic vehicle alerts.
The recent signing of an agreement to develop the Next Generation 112 (NG112) system marks the start of one of the most significant projects to modernise emergency services in the Republic of Cyprus.
The agreement was signed between the Civil Defence Force and Cyta, with implementation of the project expected to take 20 months.
The project is considered a strategically important investment for the country and forms part of efforts to align the Republic of Cyprus with the European regulatory and technological framework governing emergency communications.
Video, text messages and eCall alerts
The new Cyprus emergency system will be able to handle voice calls, real-time text messages, images, video, location data and automatic eCall alerts from vehicles.
This will provide first responders with faster and more comprehensive information during critical incidents, where every second can prove decisive.
The system will operate as the national emergency call answering centre, serving all of the Republic’s response services, including the Fire Service, Cyprus Police, Ambulance Service, Department of Forests, National Guard, Search and Rescue Coordination Centre and Civil Defence.
One national system for emergency communications
Implementation of the project will enable the unified management of all emergency communications at national level, substantially upgrading the operational capabilities of the competent services and improving the speed and quality of their response.
At the same time, the Cyprus emergency system will ensure equal access to emergency services for people with disabilities, in line with European standards.
‘A more modern and reliable response’
In a recorded statement, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou welcomed the signing of the agreement.
“Following the implementation of the CY-Alert system, the upgrade of the 112 emergency number represents another significant step towards more modern, effective and reliable emergency management,” Ioannou said.
Once NG112 is completed, he added, the Republic of Cyprus will have a modern, unified and resilient emergency call management system that is fully aligned with European standards.
The system will significantly strengthen civil protection, public safety and the protection of human life, responding to the modern needs of society and the expectations of citizens.
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