Chennai
As per the instructions from Commissioner AK Viswanathan, all the Joint Commissioners have directed inspectors in their jurisdiction to carry out the monitoring in a full-fledged manner. The exercise began a few days ago, sources said.
To monitor using binoculars, tallest buildings in the jurisdiction is chosen. "In Periamet, the suburban terminal gives a clear view of the surroundings. So, we have posted two police personnel to monitor the area using binoculars. They work in two shifts covering the entire day time," said Periamet inspector S Prabu.
If they spot any kites in the sky, they would alert the police station with the exact location and the team would go to the spot to secure the kite flyers. On Thursday, the Periamet police secured two juveniles for flying kites. However, as they did not use the dangerous manja thread, their parents were warned. "We also have erected banners at select places warning against flying kites in the city," the inspector added.
The Choolaimedu police have been using drones to nab kite flyers. In the last week, 15 cases of kite flying have been booked. "Usually, when we go looking for kite flyers, they would flee the spot. But with the help of the cameras fixed on the drones, we take snapshots of the flyers so that the suspects cannot escape," said Choolaimedu inspector Anandbabu. The police have hired a drone for the job, while a formal request has been placed for the binoculars.
Recently, the Choolaimedu police had booked three under culpable homicide charges for the first time in the city. Both these inspectors said the instances of kite flying have drastically come down due to the intensified monitoring. "We have also been conducting awareness programmes. Kite flyers should realise the gravity of their action, which could cost lives," added Anandbabu.
Joint Commissioner J Sudhakar said that the drive was undertaken following an advisory from Commissioner Viswanathan to intensify monitoring of kite flying and book the offenders.
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