With the spike in cases pertaining to women safety in the national capital, the Delhi police force has introduced yet another initiative in its attempt of modernizing its patrolling capabilities. It has announced the launch of a squad, Raftar, of 600 motorcycles, to be driven by women.

“The bikes will patrol narrow lanes and act as the first responder in emergencies. The women-led patrolling bikes will be present in areas frequented by women,” said Dependra Pathak, chief spokesperson, confirming the initiative.

And these are not going to be any ordinary motorcycles, equipped with windscreens and donning a new livery — grey instead of the current yellow, their riders will be provided with body cameras, helmet bullhorns, pepper sprays and Taser guns, in addition to regular firearms, said a source.

After ‘Parakram’ police vans, it is time for ‘Raftaar’ patrolling bikes

The Delhi Police is making way for 600 new, high-tech motorbikes, 60% of which will have policewomen as riders. Subscribe to our channel: http://read.ht/fLZ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/htTweets Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hindustantimes iOS:- http://m.onelink.me/bcae8b2d Android:- http://m.onelink.me/986f584a Watch more videos at: http://www.hindustantimes.com/video hindustantimes.com © 2016

“The patrolling bikes will be GPS-enabled and connected with the center as well as district control rooms. Their movement will be monitored and riders will get an alert if they go beyond designated routes or territorial jurisdiction,” said spokesperson Pathak.

While the initial plan was to have an all-women team, they were faced with a complication. “The problem was the lack of women in the force with driving licenses. Hence, the squad will now consist of 60% women cops,” the official said. Another senior police officer said 200 policewomen have already started training in high-speed motorcycle riding.

“I train them for one hour each in morning and evening at a nearby stadium and on roads with light traffic. A few of them already know how to ride scooters,” said Shushila, a constable from the Maurice Nagar police station.

Expected to hit the roads by the end of this year, Delhi Police will then approach the home ministry to clear acquisition of new motorcycles and gadgets.