Mumbai police now refuse UAV for traffic surveillance

Despite seeking permission from the state government last year for procuring an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for surveillance of traffic in the metropolis, the Mumbai police have now backed out saying they do not want the system, as of now, as its maintenance is difficult.

The refusal comes months after the state government sanctioned Rs one crore to procure a UAV. Mumbai police planned to procure it for the city as part of its anti-terror machinery procurement like sophisticated assault rifles and bullet-proof jackets among others.

"We have sent a letter to the DGP saying we do not want the UAV at present as we are not in a position to maintain and operate it," said deputy police commissioner (operations) Rajkumar Vhatkar.

The city police chief believes the police personnel were already overburdened and introduction of new equipment would further burden them, another senior police official said, adding that, it was not immediately possible to train personnel who can operate and maintain it.