Kolkata Police is all set to induct helicopters for effective management of the security situation and to augment its surveillance capabilities.
The move is a step to modernise the force by introducing updated policing methods and tactics and it would start using the helicopters soon, a senior home department official told PTI.
"Inducting helicopters into the force will definitely help Kolkata Police to help in increasing surveillance in and around the city. Helicopters will also help in the effective management of any security situation," the official said on condition of anonymity.
At least two helicopters would be purchased in the first phase, he said adding that the order for them would be placed soon.
The force has already introduced snipers and commandos.
A detailed discussion was held between senior Kolkata Police(KP) officials and experts were recently held at KP headquarters here on the issue.
"There were discussions regarding the advantages of using helicopters in the city for quick deployment of forces to inaccessible areas and how to use them for city policing," said another senior Kolkata Police officer, who was present at the meeting.
There were also discussions on where the helicopters would be stationed so that they can be used easily at the required time, he added.
"The copters will have space for at least four persons to sit. The helicopters will have facilities for fitting guns and will be manoeuvrable in narrow spaces," the officer said adding that NSG-trained special KP police personnel would man them.
The induction of helicopters by Kolkata Police would also help the neighbouring police commissionerates in dealing with the crimes and keeping a surveillance in areas under them, the home department officer said.
Mumbai Police started using police helicopters since 2011 and other forces are mulling procuring copters for important role in emergency situations for surveillance as well as operational functions.
Incidentally Kolkata Police has recently inducted Harley-Davidson Street 750s into their fleet for special occasions.
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