Newly Launched ‘Pink Patrol’ Rescues Stranded Girl in Coimbatore
In a heartwarming incident, Coimbatore’s recently introduced ‘Pink Patrol’ team swiftly came to the aid of a stranded schoolgirl, highlighting the initiative’s effectiveness in ensuring women’s safety. The quick response has bolstered public trust in this localized policing effort.
The Incident: A Swift Rescue
On Tuesday evening, a 14-year-old girl missed her school bus near Gandhipuram and found herself stranded as dusk fell. When an unknown individual approached her, a vigilant shopkeeper alerted the Pink Patrol, which arrived within minutes. The all-women team comforted the girl, contacted her parents, and safely escorted her home.
“I was scared, but the police aunties were very kind. They assured me I was safe,” the girl later shared. Her parents expressed relief, stating, “We’re grateful such a system exists.”
What Is the ‘Pink Patrol’?
Launched a month ago by the Coimbatore City Police, the Pink Patrol is a dedicated team of women officers deployed to respond to emergencies involving women and children. Their GPS-enabled patrol vehicles are equipped with first-aid kits and direct links to local police stations. Operating 24/7, these teams focus on high-risk areas like transit hubs and educational institutions.
City Police Commissioner Mr. V. Balakrishnan said, “We’re building trust through visibility. Women should know help is just a call away.”
Public and Expert Reactions
The initiative has earned praise from activists and locals alike. Dr. Anitha Ramesh, a gender rights advocate, noted, “Quick response times are crucial in preventing harassment.”
Residents like Priya M., a college student, shared, “Seeing women officers patrolling is reassuring.” Social media also celebrated the effort, with #PinkPatrol trending in Tamil Nadu.
Challenges and Future Plans
While successful, challenges remain, including expanding coverage and raising awareness in marginalized communities. The police are working to integrate the patrol with the ‘112’ emergency system and partner with NGOs for self-defense workshops.
Could This Be a National Model?
Similar initiatives like Kerala’s ‘Pink Police’ and Delhi’s ‘Parivartan Sukoon’ vans suggest such programs could set a national benchmark with proper funding and training.
For Coimbatore, this rescue is proof that proactive policing works. As one officer said, “Every girl we help today is a future that feels safer tomorrow.”
— Reporting by Riya Mathur for NextMinuteNews
