Traffic cops to get protection gear to beat summer heat

HUBBALLI: Traffic policemen across the state will soon receive better protection from extreme summer conditions while performing their duties on the roads. The commissioner for traffic and road safety has issued an order to all police commissionerates and superintendents of police to provide essential facilities for traffic personnel working under the open sky for long hours. According to the order, departments have been directed to arrange parachute umbrellas, face masks, drinking water and electrolyte drinks for traffic policemen.

These measures are intended to help them cope with the scorching heat and reduce the health risks caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Traffic personnel often remain stationed at busy junctions for several hours, making them especially vulnerable to dehydration, fatigue and heat-related illness during the summer months.

In Hubballi-Dharwad, the situation has been particularly difficult over the past few years. Traffic policemen there have been facing serious problems due to dust pollution caused by ongoing development works. Major infrastructure projects, especially flyover construction and other road works, have created dusty conditions at many traffic points. As a result, policemen have had to work in an environment that is not only physically exhausting but also harmful to their health.

With the arrival of intense summer heat, these existing difficulties have become even more severe. The combination of dust, rising temperatures and long duty hours has added to the burden on traffic personnel. The provision of masks is expected to offer some relief from dust inhalation, while umbrellas will provide shade during peak afternoon hours. Drinking water and electrolyte beverages will help maintain hydration and reduce the chances of heat stress.

CR Raveesh, DCP (crime and traffic), said the move is being seen as an important welfare measure for traffic policemen, who play a crucial role in managing road safety and ensuring smooth movement of vehicles despite harsh weather and difficult working conditions. Soon, an appropriate decision would be taken, he added.

NS Patil, former ACP Traffic, Hubballi-Dharwad, said that by directing local police authorities to make these arrangements, the traffic and road safety department has acknowledged the challenges faced by personnel on the ground and taken a practical step towards improving their working environment.

K Parashuram, DIG, commissioner of traffic and road safety, said that based on the suggestions by Mohan Kumar Danappa, member, Karnataka State Police Complaints Authority, the order was issued. He added that respective unit heads across the state could implement the order, looking at the availability of funds and feasibility.