The pink patrolling team and the shadow police have stepped up surveillance in the city to ensure that school children do not come under the influence of drug peddlers and anti-social elements. The safety measures, tightened in view of the reopening of schools after summer vacation, will also keep track of students who roam around the city during school time. Parents or school authorities concerned will be immediately apprised of such incidents. The police say the safety of students will be given utmost priority in the wake of a recent directive from the State Police Chief. Special drives against drug abuse and the sale of tobacco products near the premises of educational institutions will continue this academic year as well. The service of Student Police cadets, trained during the summer coaching programme, will be utilised to track offenders. According to Mr. P.M. Manoj, Town Circle Inspector ,The police is extra vigilant at the beginning of every academic year as chances are high for the return of drug peddlers and miscreants who target students on school premises. “We are yet to receive any formal order for the exercise, but all patrolling squad members have been alerted to handle the additional responsibility,” he adds. The police patrolling teams will also camp at major bus stops in the evening to monitor the operation of buses. Action will be initiated on the spot against private buses that deny entry to students. Harassment in the name of concession ticket charges will also be dealt with sternly. Along with the police, the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) squads will also monitor the pick-and-drop facility offered to students. Only vehicles allotted fitness stickers will be allowed to operate the service.
