Delhi Police launches Bicycle Patrols for better policing

Delhi Police on 30 May 2017 launched the Bicycle Patrols for better policing in the capital. The Bicycle Patrols were flagged off by Union minister of Home Affairs Hansraj Gangaram Ahir.
 
In the first phase, a total of 65 high-end bicycles have been operationalised. Out of 65 bicycles, 30 were allotted for North East district, 20 for East district and 15 for Shahdara district.

The scheme will be extended to other areas of Delhi as well.

Highlights of Bicycle Patrols
• Bicycle patrols were launched as a part of green initiative for patrolling the parks, congested lanes, by-lanes, the cooperative societies, etc.

• These patrols were introduced to complement and supplement existing motorcycle and PCR patrols of Delhi Police which focus mainly on crime prevention along the arterial and main roads of Delhi.

• Cycle patrols can go where traditional patrol vehicles cannot. They can reach the narrow and heavily congested areas where mechanized vehicles find it difficult to reach.

• They will also be utilized for patrolling during odd hours when the residents are taking rest, as they will be less disturbing.

• One of the main areas of focus of these bicycle patrols will be parks where citizens including senior citizens and women go for morning and evening walks.

• The bicycle patrols will also be introduced in the University campus areas and near schools and colleges where the police officers can have a friendly interface with the student community.

• The bicycle patrols will mostly be in 'buddy pairs' and will normally cover a distance of 2 to 5 kilometres per patrol.

• The patrolling officers will be equipped with standard police communication equipment which will operate in 'hands-free mode' and function like mobile police posts of the local Police Station.

• Each bicycle has been fitted with cell phone docks and equipment for keeping other accessories.

• With zero environmental costs and additional health benefits for the riders, the bicycle patrol parties will also bring the concept of 'Policing by community involvement'.