Next, GPS-cum-alert vehicle devices to boost performance of cops

The police have contracted an international IT company, Amtex, to install the devices in 474 vehicles, including 431 patrol vehicles. Out of the 431 patrol vehicles, 135 already have GPS devices, but sources said these devices are likely to be upgraded. Highly placed sources in city police told DTNext that the devices are not just a GPS system but a camera-integrated alert system which have both front and rear cameras. It can record short videos with audio and send them to the police control room, whenever the patrol vehicle comes to face with a law and order or crime situation. “GPS can only give you the geographical position of the vehicle. But the new device will also work as an alert-cum-data transmission equipment. For example, if the patrolling team encounters a chain snatcher and if he tries to escape, the patrol team could can use the device to record a video of the accused. This will then be sent to the control room,” a senior police official told DTNext. 

The control room will have the visual of the accused and the vehicle details, if the accused is using one to make good his escape. The Control room can then pass on the message across the city to track the criminal in the event he gets away. Similarly, if the patrolling team witness a law and order situation, the device can alert the control room with exact location and more personnel can be despatched immediately. Moreover, senior police officials will be able to monitor the situation from the control room. The company authorities have already begun the initial work for installation of the devices. Sources said since the requirements for different vehicle models vary, they are now inspecting the police patrol vehicles to fine tune the product.