Coimbatore City Police Commissioner Balakrishnan announced the installation of cameras on Avinashi Road to monitor vehicle speeds. He also discussed road safety initiatives, drunk driving prevention, and ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities.
Coimbatore: The Coimbatore City Police Commissioner's office held an event to release a short film titled "NANCY" focusing on road safety. Commissioner Balakrishnan released the short film and later addressed the media.
Speaking to reporters, the Commissioner said, "The Chief Minister has allocated Rs 5 crore in this budget for conducting various awareness programs to make Coimbatore a model city for road safety. We are organizing numerous awareness events centered on road safety. As part of this initiative, we have released a short film called 'NANCY' today, emphasizing the importance of wearing helmets."
Balakrishnan added, "Last year, we conducted a short film competition to prevent drug abuse, with over 350 entries. Winners were not only awarded prizes but also given opportunities to work as assistants to renowned directors. One of them is currently working as an assistant director in cinema. Similarly, we plan to organize a short film competition focused on preventing road accidents."
Regarding minors driving vehicles, the Commissioner stated, "It is illegal for parents to allow their children under 18 to drive vehicles. Legal action will be taken against parents if minors are involved in accidents. Even after turning 18, proper training is required before operating vehicles."
On speed control measures, Balakrishnan said, "Cameras have been installed on Avinashi Road to monitor vehicle speeds. Initially, we are taking action against vehicles traveling over 100 km/h. In the past week alone, more than 50 vehicles have been brought to the police station for action. We are also conducting surprise checks in the evenings to prevent drunk driving."
Addressing the issue of police carrying firearms during patrols, the Commissioner explained, "Police officers receive firearms training when they join the force, along with annual refresher courses. They are also trained on the legal aspects of when to use firearms."
Regarding the monitoring of rowdies, Balakrishnan said, "We have a system in place to monitor those on the rowdy list monthly, checking if their activities comply with the law. We also use the 'Smart Kavalan' app introduced by the Tamil Nadu government, which lists rowdy details and provides special reports if they engage in illegal activities. This week, 12 history-sheeters have been sentenced."
On the Ratman Moorthy case, the Commissioner stated, "The police investigation into the robbery case involving Moorthy, known as 'Ratman,' has concluded. The investigation revealed that Moorthy and his gang are involved in 73 cases across Tamil Nadu, with approximately 1500 sovereigns of gold stolen. Some of Moorthy's associates have already been arrested, and two more surrendered today. We are taking steps to recover and return the stolen items to the victims."