India News | Himachal CM Sukhu Flags off 25 Patrolling Vehicles to Improve Traffic Management, Emergency Response

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 4 (ANI): To improve traffic management and emergency response across the state, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu flagged off 25 new patrolling vehicles on Sunday.

In the first phase, 19 patrolling motorcycles were allocated to Shimla, and six to the Nurpur Police District, with an investment of approximately Rs 3.72 crore.

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Shimla district will benefit from a range of new equipment, including 30 handheld speed guns, 10 body-worn cameras, 18 alco sensors, 30 vehicle-operated speed signs, 80 expandable barriers, 225 reflective jackets, 115 rechargeable batons, 200 traffic cones, 70 interlocking plastic barricades, and 30 searchlights.

Plans are also underway to equip Kangra and Mandi districts similarly.

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The Director General of Police, Dr Atul Varma, said, "The new equipment and vehicles will significantly enhance our ability to enforce traffic regulations and respond effectively to emergencies. We will improve the equipment and install cameras in it. These bikes would help to minimise the traffic regulations in the state."

The Chief Minister outlined that the government is investing Rs 27 crore in various equipment to bolster police capabilities in traffic enforcement, surveillance, and emergency response.

This includes 42 four-wheelers, 27 two-wheelers, 14 interceptor vehicles, and specialised equipment for rescue operations. All procurement is expected to be completed by March 2025, with distribution to police stations in Shimla, Kangra, and Mandi.

Further, an investment of approximately Rs 90 crore will fund the acquisition of advanced patrolling, surveillance, and emergency response equipment. An additional Rs 61.57 crore will establish an integrated road safety enforcement system in Shimla, featuring 532 AI-equipped cameras at 214 strategic locations across Shimla, Kangra, and Mandi.

CM Sukhu said, "Our government is committed to improving road safety through innovative measures and substantial investments in infrastructure and equipment."

He emphasised the long-term action plan, includes improvements in road engineering, enhanced police patrolling, and specialised training for both police and public works department engineers.

Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh said, "We are implementing a comprehensive strategy to enhance road safety and traffic management, reflecting our commitment to protecting lives and improving infrastructure. PWD department has given World Bank funded bikes to state police and it would help in improving road safety." (ANI)

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