10 Parakram vans with commandos to keep hawk-eye vigil in Delhi

In the wake of recent inputs about a possible terror attack in the city, the Delhi Police has decided to place 10 PCR vans manned by National Security Guard-trained drivers and commandos, in vulnerable spots.

The 'Parakram' vans will be stationed at Vijay Chowk, Palika Bazar, IP Marg, Select Citywalk Mall in Saket, Vasant Kunj Mall, Pacific Mall in Subhash Nagar, Netaji Subhash Place market and mall complex, Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple and Jhandewalan.

They were flagged off by Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik on Friday at an event. In a recent interview to the press, Patnaik said that Delhi Police has to make extra efforts in maintaining vigil since Delhi is the 'favourite' target of terror outfits.

"In the light of recent terror attacks across the globe, it was decided that we should add anti-terror backup, said Dependra Pathak," said special commissioner of police (operations). These vans will be mandated for anti-terror and other serious situations warranting an armed response and will not handle the usual calls that are handled by the PCR unit.

The aim of deploying these vans is to respond to any terror attack promptly and to instill a feeling of security and safety among citizens with their visibility, said the officer.

Each van will be manned by an NSG-trained driver, an in- charge and three commandos armed with an AK-47 assault weapon. The contingent of commandos also comprises of nine women commandos.

Drivers deployed on these vans will be armed with a 'small weapon' and are trained by the National Security Guard in offensive driving with 360 degrees turning and firing in mobile mode.