Gurugram: Gurugram’s traffic police have equipped their personnel with cooling jackets to alleviate the heat stress experienced while managing traffic at busy intersections. Initially, 12 such jackets have been distributed to officers stationed at key intersections, with Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Virender Vij explaining that these jackets can lower body temperature by 5-6 degrees compared to the ambient temperature for 3-5 hours, depending on humidity levels. Vij emphasized the importance of evaluating the jackets’ effectiveness over a week before considering a larger procurement for the entire traffic force. He highlighted the challenges faced by traffic officers during peak summer and mentioned ongoing efforts to provide relief through various measures such as vests, helmets, and porta cabins. The jackets offer multiple health benefits including regulating body temperature, minimizing thermal and cardiovascular stress, and enhancing endurance levels. While acknowledging previous issues with similar jackets in Hyderabad, Gurugram police stated that modifications have been made and feedback from 50 officers will be gathered before wider implementation.
