In a pioneering move, Delhi Police officers will now be permitted to travel on metro trains with weapons during emergencies to circumvent traffic congestion and swiftly reach crisis locations, officials revealed on Friday.
The proposal received the green light following discussions between Delhi Police, DMRC, and CISF in a recent meeting. Previously, officers were prohibited from carrying weapons on the metro.
A senior Delhi Police official stated that the standard operating procedure (SOP) has been finalized, with potential implementation before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Delhi. The SOP entails notifying DMRC officials about the personnel’s details and purpose of travel, allowing them to bypass token requirements.
During crises, a dedicated coach may be allocated to police personnel, who will don uniforms and cover travel expenses. This initiative aims to address challenges faced during riot-like situations, where heavy traffic impedes swift mobilization.
Metro lines, which span across Delhi, offer a strategic advantage in expediting response times during emergencies. Additionally, transportation will be arranged for pick-up and drop-off services between metro stations and crisis sites, including deployment of paramilitary personnel if required.
This initiative comes in the wake of past communal riots in Trilokpuri (2014) and North-East Delhi (2020), underscoring the necessity for swift and efficient crisis response mechanisms.
(with PTI inputs)
