TRAINED MOUNTED POLICE PERSONNEL ASSIGNED RESPONSIBILITY; SCOPE TO BE EXPANDED IF PILOT PROVES SUCCESSFUL
Face2News/Panchkula
In a unique initiative aimed at strengthening law and order through effective, modern and people-centric policing, Panchkula Police has introduced mounted police patrolling. Alongside conventional vehicle-based and foot patrols, trained horses and riders will now be deployed to enhance police presence in areas that are difficult to access by regular vehicles.
As part of the initiative, the Sector-21 Police Post team, under the leadership of Police Post In-charge Dildar Singh, recently conducted a special patrol using horses. The patrol covered public places, residential lanes, open spaces and other sensitive locations. Police personnel also interacted with local residents to gather feedback regarding safety and security. The initiative received a positive response from the public.
During a press briefing, ACP Vikram Nehra said that Panchkula Police currently has a dedicated mounted unit stationed at the Sector-21 Police Post. The horses will be used primarily in rural areas, crowded localities, isolated spots, narrow lanes and the district’s hilly and rugged terrain where conventional vehicles face limitations. He added that the pilot project has shown encouraging results so far and trained mounted personnel have been entrusted with the responsibility. Fuel savings will also be assessed under the project.
ACP Nehra further stated that the initiative is not merely an alternative patrolling system but a practical and effective policing model designed to meet future requirements. Mounted patrols can play a significant role in crime prevention, surveillance and ensuring a quick police presence in sensitive areas.
DCP Srishti Gupta said the initiative would help reduce fuel consumption and promote environmental conservation. She noted that the visible presence of mounted police would strengthen the public’s sense of security while also creating a psychological deterrent for anti-social elements.
The mounted patrol system has currently been introduced on a trial basis, and its performance will be evaluated in detail. If the model proves successful, Panchkula Police plans to seek approval for additional horses and expand the programme further, making policing in the district more efficient, environmentally friendly and community-oriented.