The Gujarat Police is making a significant stride towards improving safety for women with the launch of an all-female drone surveillance unit. This initiative is part of the SHE Team programme, which aims to reduce crimes against women and enhance safety at night. The specially trained women will operate drones to patrol dark areas, isolated streets, and high-risk zones, particularly during nighttime. These drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and AI-based threat detection systems that can identify suspicious activities and reckless driving. Real-time alerts will be sent to police control rooms, enabling swift action.
The initiative is powered by “Application 2.0,” a smart platform designed to facilitate real-time SOS alerts and secure communication among officers. The drones will also be deployed in tribal and coastal areas, extending their reach and capabilities.
In addition to surveillance, the SHE Teams will operate mobile command units equipped with drones, emergency kits, and live-reporting tools. There are plans to integrate SHE Team activities into school programs to inspire young girls and raise awareness about safety.
The command structure for the SHE Teams is well-organized. A nodal officer of the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) will oversee the teams across the state. Each zone, including metropolitan, rural, and coastal areas, will have command hubs led by Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSP). Field teams will consist of sub-inspectors, women constables, social workers, and child rights representatives, ensuring a comprehensive approach to safety.
The response tiers of the programme are structured to address different levels of urgency. Tier 1 responses will deal with harassment and public threats within 0-5 minutes. Tier 2 will cover domestic violence and missing persons within 5-20 minutes. Tier 3 will provide legal aid and counselling within 20-60 minutes.
To ensure transparency and accountability, monthly performance dashboards will be used to track the effectiveness of the SHE Teams. Additionally, a feedback system will allow the public to share their thoughts on the operations, fostering community involvement and trust.
This pioneering initiative represents a crucial step towards women-led safety solutions and smarter policing in Gujarat. The introduction of an all-female drone squad not only empowers women in law enforcement but also serves as an innovative approach to public safety. With these advancements, Gujarat aims to create a safer environment for women, encouraging them to participate more actively in society without fear.
The launch of the all-women drone squad is expected to set a precedent for other states in India, showcasing how technology and community-driven initiatives can work together to enhance safety and security. As this project unfolds, it will be interesting to see its impact on crime rates and the overall perception of safety among women in Gujarat.
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