For the first time in the country, Tourism Department of Karnataka government has taken an innovative step towards introducing exclusive security force in the tourist destinations to ensure safety and security to the visitors. However, they are not an alternative to existing police force. They act as friends and guides to the visitors. The green police can easily be recognised by their distinctive uniforms.
Speaking to City Herald, Udupi District Tourism Department Assistant Director Adilaxmi said that as many as 89 Green Police have been deployed to serve in the initial phase across the State, of which 9 have been put to service in Udupi district.
“Two each Green Police have been deployed at Maple beach, Marvanthe coast, St Mary’s Island and Kaup sea shore and one at Gomateshwara shrine in Karkala in the district,” she said and added that the Green Policemen will keep an eye on the illegal activities taking place in the tourist spots. “Proposals are being finalised to employ Green Police at Sri Krishna mutt in the second phase. Subsequently, Green Police will be deployed at all the tourist places in the district,” she said.
They don’t have the authority or power to take action against the offenders. However, they act as protective cell to the tourists and interface between tourists and nearest police station. They offer protection to the tourists in cases of robbery, molestation, attack and other incidents. The force comprises ex-servicemen and home guards.
Besides, the Green Police will keep an eye on tourists and general public who pollute tourist spots by spitting, throwing garbage and dirting the walls by writing, carving etc.
Superintendent of Police Pravin Pawar said that police department has received request letter from district tourism department for help if need arises. “Our men are put on patrolling at beach areas for 24 hours. However, we will extend our help to Green police and react immediately to the calls from them,” he said.
The State government has released a fund of Rs 26.10 lakh to pay 89 Green Policemen for the period of six months. Each police will receive a monthly salary of Rs 4,500.
In the backdrop of attacks and molestation cases on sightseers who come from distant places, the idea of Green Police may work out well. Though it is too early to predict the outcome of the new venture, the project is seen as a ray of hope to the tourists and to the environment.