All-women police patrol squad to make south Delhi streets safer

NEW DELHI : Aiming to make women feel safer, the south Delhi police launched an all-women patrol squad on Wednesday. Twelve personnel will ride on eight bikes and patrol crimeprone areas. The team will be accompanied by one police van.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (south) Romil Baaniya said the squad was aimed at boosting confidence among women and girls.

“There are many areas in south Delhi which witnesses heavy footfall of women. Crimes take place in such places such as markets and malls. To make women feel safer in these areas, this squad has been formed. Twelve women police officers will be on eight bikes, accompanied by a gypsy. They will help in curbing street crimes and safeguard women,” said Baaniya.

During the launch, the women officers wore yellow helmets and rode yellow bikes, which had ‘Delhi Police’ written across its front portion in bright red. The squad took a road trip from Sarojini Nagar market to Saket. Each bike had two women officers. The road trip covered areas with heavy footfall such as INA market, South Extension market, Ansal Plaza, Gargi College, Kamla Nehru College, Green Park market, Hauz Khas Village and Saket malls.

Constable Tulsi, posted at Saket police station, is part of the squad launched on the eve of International Women’s Day. She has been with Delhi Police for the last three years, but this is for the first time that she will be working full-time on a bike.

“This is a great opportunity for me. I enjoy riding a bike. It gives me confidence. And now I can ride bikes during work and protect other women and curb street crime. This is very encouraging,” said Tulsi.

Sitting behind her on the same bike, riding pillion, was constable Hemlata. She is also posted at Saket police station.

Sub-inspector Shalu, posted at Neb Sarai police station, couldn’t help smiling. A passionate bike rider, Shalu said it was a proud moment for her to be on board the team.

“Women sometimes feel scared to approach police for help. Our squad will help in bridging that gap,” said another women personnel who was part of the group.

During the launch of the squad, the women personnel were joined by more than 20 female solo riders. These were women from different working backgrounds across all age groups, but had come together for their love of riding bikes.

Among them was Sahiba, a teacher. She goes on solo road trips and participates in bike events.

“The launch of the all-women patrolling squad is an inspiring move by police. It will not only boost confidence of women police officers but also encourage other women to come forward,” said Sahiba.