With less than 100 days left for the Commonwealth Games, the Delhi police is picking young and agile personnel to man the 230 Police Control Room vans which will move around the city during the mega sporting event.
The PCR vans are normally the first responders to all incidents and accidents where police help is sought. During the Games, these will be the public face of Delhi police, hence the attempt to project a young and vibrant image.
Officials say the department has decided to remove aged, overweight or unfit policemen from about 230 PCR vans. This
means that all policemen over 45 will be checked to see if
they are fit to be put in these vehicles.
Those selected will get training in basic etiquette, including spoken English and the soft skills required to assist foreign delegates and domestic visitors expected in the capital for the sporting extravaganza.
"We have decided to employ physically fit, young and agile men and women in PCR vans. The induction will be completed by mid-September," additional commissioner of police (PCR) Kewal Singh told PTI.
He said these personnel would be given basic medical training to act in case of emergency.
"We have set aside 230 PCR vans which are in good condition (out of a total of 650-odd vans) for Games duty and will be equipping them with medical supplies and first-aid equipment," said Singh.
These vans will be deployed near large hotels, practice venues, Games sites and VIP routes.
"Elaborate security arrangements have been made, including trained commandos, snipers and security personnel for guarding athletes, Games venues and foreign delegates,"
said another Delhi Police official associated with Commonwealth Games security.
The XIX Commonwealth Games are scheduled here for October
3-14.
Under the crisis management plan framed by the Delhi police, each venue will be supervised by a deputy commissioner rank officer who will seek assistance from central paramilitary forces, civic agencies and fire officials in case of any untoward incident.
"Basically we would like to ensure fool-proof security for athletes and visitors coming to Delhi for the Games," Singh added.
