Traffic cops to get high-end masks

The Delhi traffic police failed to provide pollution mask to around 5,000 traffic policemen on outdoor duty in the city even when the city continues to battle with one of the worst air pollution levels in the last 17 years.

A senior official with the Delhi traffic police said the demand for pollution mask has already been placed and all traffic policemen will get pollution mask within a week.

The traffic police department said that they have already provided 500 pollution masks to traffic policemen posted on borders or main intersections where pollution level is higher in comparison to rest of the city.

When this newspaper approached a traffic policeman on duty in ITO intersection, he said that he had bought the mask for himself and two of his colleagues three days ago. But because of high pollution level and constant use, the masks have lost their property within two days and he had to again buy new masks.

“We have been informed from senior officials to wear the mask on duty as we are the most vulnerable to pollution. A wireless message was passed with instructions of strict implementation to wear mask at all time while performing duty,” said a traffic policeman.

“They have already instructed to immediately float tenders for high-quality masks for all traffic policemen. The masks will be available within a week. But till we get pollution masks, we will do with the ones available in the market,” said Garima Bhatnagar, joint CP (traffic).

“In the new masks, if the filter chokes depending on usage and prevalent air quality, it can be removed and replaced. These masks are air-tight and give proper protection to our personnel. The rest of the mask can be washed. So these masks can be used for long periods,” she added. Meanwhile, in a move to tackle heavy pollution levels in the national capital, Delhi police on Tuesday launched a special drive taking action against hundreds of vehicle owners flouting pollution related norms. A total of 568 vehicles were challaned for not having pollution under control certificate (PUC). Also, over 5000 old vehicles were checked out of which 11 were found more than 15 years old and were impounded.