In a significant upgrade to its security apparatus, the Goa Police on Tuesday officially inducted a state-of-the-art vehicle-mounted jammer into its fleet. The advanced system, valued at Rs 4.9 crore, is designed to fortify protection for VVIPs and VIPs visiting the popular coastal state.
A Long-Awaited Solution for High-Risk Security
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant flagged off the new security vehicle alongside other equipment, including body-worn cameras for the traffic cell, heavy cranes, trucks, and motorcycles. The acquisition of the jammer vehicle addresses a critical gap in Goa's security preparedness. Police officials revealed that the force previously faced a shortage of such specialized vehicles and often had to borrow them from neighboring states like Karnataka and Maharashtra.
On numerous occasions, security arrangements for high-profile visitors had to be managed without jammers, posing substantial challenges. "Many events take place in the state, and VVIPs arrive to attend these," police stated, highlighting the constant need for robust countermeasures.
Neutralizing Threats and Completing the Security Box
The primary function of the sophisticated vehicle is to neutralise communication and remote-control explosive devices. This capability is crucial for ensuring safe VVIP movement, particularly in high-risk zones. With this new addition, the main VIP security unit of the Goa Police is now considered fully equipped, as the state already possesses two blast-resistant vehicles.
"Vehicle-mounted jammers will help VVIP movement safely," affirmed CM Sawant. He emphasized the police force's commitment to procuring advanced vehicles to maintain safety and security across Goa.
Traffic Enforcement Gets a Tech Makeover
Alongside the jammer, a groundbreaking change was announced for traffic management. Chief Minister Sawant declared that Goa would become the first state in India to implement a system where every traffic challan is issued exclusively by officers of PSI and PI rank. Furthermore, these fines will only be issued by personnel equipped with body-worn cameras, ensuring transparency and accountability.
The event also marked the induction of a heavy crane, another vital resource previously lacking. The police had to rent such cranes during peak tourist seasons and major VVIP movements, but now have one permanently in their inventory for public safety readiness.
The integration of the Rs 4.9 crore jammer vehicle marks a pivotal step in Goa's security strategy, ending its reliance on other states and providing a dedicated, cutting-edge tool to protect dignitaries in the bustling tourist hub.
