The number of COVID-19 cases is rising at an alarming rate in the country. As of May 12, 2020, positive cases have climbed to 70,756. Maharashtra has the highest number of cases statewide at 23,401. Our Protectors – the Men in Uniform – have been badly hit by this pandemic. Their incessant duty has not left them immune to the virus. From a mere single digit of cases, the spike has reached 1,007 as on May 11, 2020, with 106 officers and 901 constables having contracted the deadly virus.
As per the data shared by the Police, 91 officers and 796 constables are under treatment, seven have died, while the rest have recovered. “Policemen safety is our priority as they are the need of the hour,” said a police officer. The Mumbai Police Commissionerate continues to be a cause for concern, with 394 of the 1,007 COVID-19 cases being reported among its personnel as of May 11.
To support their officers and boost their morale, the City Police Chief has been visiting several police stations all over Mumbai and coordinating with his police personnel, guiding them to keep themselves safe while helping the citizens.
Mumbai Police Commissioner, Param Bir Singh visited the northern suburbs and interacted with police personnel posted at the nakabandis at Malad, Malwani, Goregaon, Kandivali and other locations. Mr Singh also visited the Dahisar Check Naka, a crucial entry-exit point to the city that is witnessing an exodus of migrants leaving for their hometowns.
Officers said attempts are underway to ensure a continuous supply of personal protective equipment to police personnel.
“We have asked all police personnel above the age of 55 years to go on compulsory leave; relieving them from the line of duty during this pandemic. We have also adjusted the shift time in such a way that each police officer gets a rest for a minimum of 24 hours. We briefed him on the nitty-gritty of the bandobast and the precautions taken to ensure the safety of our personnel. We also voiced our concerns on the issue,” an officer with the Goregaon Police Station said.
Mr Singh had earlier visited the JJ Marg Police Station, where 34 personnel have tested positive for COVID-19.
“We were happy to see the Commissioner on the ground asking about the problems we faced. He inquired about everything, such as the flow of vehicles going in and out of the city. He also asked women police personnel about the problems they faced. He encouraged all of us to take all the necessary safety precautions,” another officer said.
While the police have noticed an improvement in general obedience by citizens, yet there are still some lockdown violaters. They have so far registered more than 1.03 lakh cases against lockdown violators across the State and collected Rs. 3.87 Crore in fines. They have also arrested 19,630 offenders so far and seized 55,784 vehicles.
The Traffic Police issued challans against 3,368 taxi drivers and collected a fine worth Rs 12.36 lakhs till May 11. Besides, 61 taxis and 339 autorickshaws have been seized for repeated offences. Pravin Padval, Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic), said, “A motorist is liable for suspension of driving license if he/she has committed a lockdown violation, plus have another previous violations against him/her.”
Cops Helping Cops
The City Police has launched and 24-hour Emergency Helpline number for its 45,000 personnel. Personnel seeking advice, information on COVID-19 or help to get admitted to a hospital can call on +91-9137777100 to get assistance.
The helpline has serviced requests for ambulances and guidance on understanding the symptoms and the spread of COVID-19. People have called with queries related to cold, cough and chest pain.
“We are helping the Force resolve all queries about COVID-19,” said Mumbai Police’s Spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Pranaya Ashok.
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