The Aryavarth Express Shimla (Himachal Pradesh): 2013-batch IPS officer Gaurav Singh on Monday assumed charge as the new Superintendent of Police (SP) of Shimla district and outlined his key priorities, including maintaining law and order, curbing crime, cracking down on drug trafficking, and improving traffic management in the state capital.
Speaking after taking charge,Gaurav Singh said the Shimla police would give top priority to the Himachal Pradesh government’s ongoing campaign against drug abuse and trafficking under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
“Our primary priorities will be maintaining law and order, controlling crime, and ensuring proper investigation of cases,” the new SP said.
Highlighting the growing concern over drug trafficking in the district and across the state, Gaurav Singh said police would address the issue from both the demand and supply sides.
“We will work on backward linkages of drug networks and conduct financial investigations related to drug trafficking. The issue will be tackled comprehensively,” he added.
Addressing traffic congestion in Shimla, Gaurav Singh said additional measures would be implemented to improve traffic flow. These include increasing police strength, deploying traffic riders at critical points, and implementing alternative route plans where necessary.
“Traffic beats have already been identified, and we will ensure maximum deployment of traffic personnel at these locations,” he said.
Referring to the state government’s anti-drug drive, Singh described it as a major campaign involving all stakeholders, with Shimla police playing a leading role.
“Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, a comprehensive campaign against drugs is underway. Shimla police will continue to act firmly on both the demand and supply aspects,” he said.
Singh noted that policing in Shimla presents unique challenges due to its status as the state capital, with frequent VIP movements and protocol duties.
“Policing here is demanding, but all duties will be handled seriously, with proper protocols and systematic deployments,” he said.
He also said special focus would be placed on traffic management during the tourist season, with alternative traffic plans, adequate staffing, and improved coordination.
To keep the public informed, Singh said the police would use social media platforms to provide regular traffic and safety updates to tourists and daily commuters.
Reiterating his priorities, the SP said strict action would be taken against drug trafficking, and crimes against women and children would be dealt with swiftly.
“If such crimes occur, they will be investigated within a fixed timeframe and strong action will be ensured,” he added.
