Drive launched to tackle crime, enhance safety at city beachesPolice move in response to reports of hooliganism and criminal activities, particularly at night

Commissioner of Police Dr Sankhabrata Bagchi has launched a comprehensive programme aimed at addressing rising concerns over anti-social activities and crimes. This initiative involves a thorough evaluation of police security and lighting facilities across the city’s beach locations.
Covering 10 key beach areas from Appikonda to Bheemili, the City Police Commissionerate has responded to troubling reports of hooliganism and criminal activities, particularly at night. Many visitors, who come to swim or relax, have fallen victim to harassment, theft, and assaults due to inadequate lighting and police presence. “Recent reports of criminal activities and antisocial behaviour on our beaches are deeply concerning,” stated Commissioner Bagchi. “Our primary goal is to restore safety and ensure that these public spaces are secure for all visitors,” he said.
Inspections conducted by CP Bagchi at Appikonda Beach, a suburb of Gajuwaka, revealed a significant lack of police patrol and insufficient lighting.
“During my midnight visit, it was clear that both the lighting and police presence were inadequate,” Bagchi noted. “We have issued instructions to the steel plant station officials to enhance night patrols and have urged GVMC officials to install better lighting to eliminate dark spots.”
Further scrutiny of the beach road and YMCA area revealed that while there was some police presence on the road, the beach areas themselves remained poorly monitored. “Although there is some patrol on the beach road, the absence of surveillance on the beach itself is troubling,” Bagchi observed. “We are addressing these gaps with immediate effect.”
To combat issues such as theft and harassment, visitors and youths found in dark areas have been directed to counselling. Additionally, measures are being implemented to curb bike racing by setting up check posts along the beach road.
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