Push for Digital, Citizen-Centric Governance; 30 New Vehicles Added to Amravati Police Fleet

Amravati, April 2026 : Maharashtra Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Friday emphasised the government’s focus on building a digital, citizen-centric administrative system to strengthen law and order and improve public safety. He was speaking at the inauguration of 30 new state-of-the-art vehicles inducted into the Amravati City Police fleet.

The vehicles have been procured through funds from the District Planning Committee to enhance the operational efficiency of the police force. With these additions, police personnel will be able to respond more swiftly to crime scenes and conduct patrols more effectively, thereby strengthening law enforcement across the city.

Highlighting Amravati’s significance as a major educational and cultural hub of the state, Bawankule noted that the city is witnessing rapid urbanisation and increasing investor interest. In this context, he said, ensuring safety and maintaining law and order has become more challenging and critical. He expressed confidence that the newly inducted advanced vehicles will play a vital role in addressing these challenges.

The inauguration ceremony was held at the Police Commissioner’s office and was attended by several dignitaries, including MLAs Sanjay Khodke, Sulabha Khodke, Rajesh Wankhade, Mayor Shrichand Tejwani, Pravin Pote-Patil, Special Inspector General of Police Ramnath Pokale, District Collector Ashish Yerekar, Police Commissioner Rakesh Ola, and Superintendent of Police Vishal Anand, among others.

Bawankule further stated that with the changing times, the nature of crime is also evolving, with a noticeable rise in cybercrime. To effectively tackle such emerging threats, the government is prioritising the development of a governance system driven by digital technologies and focused on citizens’ needs. He added that a comprehensive CCTV surveillance network will be established across Amravati to enhance security and curb illegal activities.

The minister also issued several directives to the police department. He instructed officials to identify sensitive locations in the city and deploy special security arrangements in those areas. He called for the implementation of the ‘Police Mitra’ initiative to involve citizens in maintaining law and order and to regularly review security conditions.

Additionally, Bawankule directed strict action against those causing disturbances on two-wheelers during night hours and emphasised the need to strengthen security measures on highways to prevent cattle smuggling. He underlined the role of media as a mirror of society and urged the police to act promptly on issues highlighted in news reports. He also asked officials to keep the media informed about the actions taken in response to such reports.

Police Commissioner Rakesh Ola delivered the introductory address at the event. The programme was conducted by Senior Police Inspector Gorakhnath Jadhav, while Deputy Commissioner of Police Ganesh Shinde proposed the vote of thanks.