KOLKATA: More cops to keep a watch on miscreants and assure walkers and joggers that help is at hand; additional CCTV cameras for wider coverage; an emergency response plan to meet any crisis — these were some of the key decisions taken at the meeting on Maidan at Kolkata Police headquarters on Thursday, a day after two snatchers had stabbed a jogger there and robbed two others at gunpoint.
The additional police deployment will happen between 5am and 7am, the busiest hour at the Maidan when it buzzes with morning walkers, joggers and players. At least 45 cops will be present in the area, including a patrol vehicle, two motorcycles and one team of anti-rowdy squad (ARS).
On Thursday, four pickets have been set up at Red Road-Mayo Road Crossing, Fort William South Gate, Outram Road and Kidderpore Oval. They are strategically located so that people, who need to reach out to the police, can easily find a picket.
While Maidan police station deploys cops at the Maidan, the additional force has been drawn from Lalbazar and South Division.
Recognising the steps taken by Kolkata Police a day after Har Govind Vyas (24) was stabbed multiple times for resisting a robbery bid, his father Sunil hoped that the miscreants would now stay off the area. He required 81 stitches to heal the wounds. He plans to speak to the police and seek the slapping of an attempt to murder case on the accused for the vicious assault on his son.
“There was no one around when my son was stabbed and he lay bleeding there for several minutes. A gentleman returning from Ranchi heeded to the requests of my son and called us from his phone. At least now, more cops will be visible,” said Sunil at his Posta residence.
Traffic cops are also increasing their presence and setting up new CCTV cameras. "Our presence will help local cops keep tabs on the area. In addition, we will not allow illegal parking,” said an officer.
