In a glimmer of hope for women’s safety across India, Chennai has emerged as the safest metro among major cities, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2022 report. With just 736 cases of crimes against women registered last year, Chennai stands in stark contrast to metros like Mumbai and Bengaluru, which saw over 3,000 cases each, and Delhi, which topped the list with a staggering 14,158 cases.
This remarkable achievement can be attributed to a multi-pronged approach by the Chennai police, with proactive policing and technology playing key roles.
Several initiatives were taken by RTO ana police to make it possible:
- Pink Patrols: These all-women squads patrol public spaces, providing immediate assistance and deterring potential threats.
- CCTV Network: A robust network of over 5,250 cameras across strategic locations keeps a watchful eye, with real-time monitoring and AI-powered analytics further enhancing security.
- Safe City Projects: Funded by the Nirbhaya Fund, these projects include improved lighting, panic buttons, and awareness campaigns, creating a safer environment for women.
- Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC): This nerve center collects data from cameras and sensors, triggering alerts for potential incidents and enabling swift police response.
- High Percentage of Women in Police Force: With a higher representation of women in the force, Chennai fosters a more comfortable environment for women to report crimes.
These measures have yielded impressive results. Not only has the number of crimes against women decreased, but there has also been an increase in the number of women confidently reporting incidents.
Commenting on the achievement, Chennai Police Commissioner Sandeep Rai Rathore stated:
“The safety of women is our top priority, and we are committed to creating a city where they feel secure and empowered. The success of these initiatives is a testament to the dedication of our officers and the strong support of the community. We will continue to strive for further improvement, ensuring Chennai remains a beacon of hope for women’s safety across the country.“
While Chennai’s progress is commendable, it is important to acknowledge that challenges remain. Pending cases and the need for continued vigilance in public spaces and public transport highlight the importance of sustained efforts. Nevertheless, Chennai’s success offers valuable insights for other cities grappling with women’s safety issues, proving that proactive policing, technological advancements, and a community-driven approach can make a real difference.