Cyberabad police to extend bicycle patrolling

HYDERABAD: The Cyberabad police will now spread its successful bicycle cops initiative to other regions within the Madhapur zone in order to curb crime. Under the scheme, the police patrol colonies on bicycles, accompanied by members of the Hyderabad Cycling Revolution Group.

The use of cycles helps the police avoid traffic bottlenecks; clearing vehicles from no-parking zones will be part of the bicyle patrols.

Madhapur DCP K. Shilpavalli, who did a patrol herself, stated that as a bicycle enthusiast she came up with the concept during the Sankranti vacation, when most of the residences were locked. The aim was to not only boost surveillance but also police visibility. Because many houses were located in narrow lanes, where patrol cars and bikes find it difficult to manoeuvre, they chose to take up bicycle patrolling.

"This way, we could patrol the colonies in the interior areas while also interacting with the residents. The measure will also foster trust and bonding with the community," Shilpavalli explained.

Members of the Hyderabad Cycling Revolution joined the police to increase community participation. "We've started working on active mobility. With this initiative, we can raise awareness about active mobility and work with the police to keep our neighbourhoods secure," Ravi Sambari of the group told Deccan Chronicle.

During Sankranti, police officers on bicycles patrolled the areas under the IT corridor from 11.30 pm to 3 am Inspired by the success, they took up bicycle patrolling on Shivaratri and Jagne Ki Raat. Simultaneously, regular patrols moved around in other parts.