Six new Parakram vans inducted by Delhi Police, total up to 30

New Delhi: In order to bolster their preparedness against terror activities, Delhi Police inducted a fleet of six new Parakram vans on Friday. With the addition, the force now has a total of 30 such vehicles.

Police sources said the enhanced fleet will help them secure most of the Capital's important establishments, which see high footfall, as well as various strategic locations where easy movement can be facilitated in case of emergencies.

"These Parakram vans will be located at select vulnerable and strategic points, including high footfall areas and iconic buildings. The newly-inducted six vans will be located at C Hexagon Rajpath crossing, Priya Cinema market, CGO Complex, Lajpat Nagar Market, Karol Bagh market and Cross River Mall. All these vans are GPRS-enabled and are fitted with pan-Delhi wireless communication," said SD Misra, Deputy Commissioner of Police (PCR).

Each Parakram van will be manned by a driver, an in-charge and three commandos. The drivers will be armed with a small weapon and trained by the National Security Guard in offensive and evasive driving, with 360 degree turning and firing in mobile mode.

Commandos will be in 'war mode' 24x7 and attired in dungaree fatigues, bulletproof vests and armed with MP-5 automatic weapons. The in-charge of the Parakram vans will wear tactical vests and equipped with a stun gun as well as light, body-borne camera, pepper spray, baton etc.

"Each commando will also be equipped with a tactical belt with pouch, all-weather cap, arms and knee pads, anti-ballistic goggles, half gloves and pepper spray can. Short term commando refresher trainings have been planned for the commandos and drivers deployed in Parakram vans at regular intervals, to maintain their fitness and professional skills," Misra further said.