In its bid to improve operational output, the CRPF has plans to strengthen its UAV bases in Naxal-hit areas.While the paramilitary is reinforcing its UAV base at Begumpet, it has also sought back up facilities at Ranchi and Bokaro in Jharkhand. An UAV base is also being developed at Bhilai and the same is likely to be operationalised by the year end, a senior CRPF official said.
Personnel with good knowledge of area of responsibility are being detailed at the Begumpet UAV base. The officers have also been asked to analyse the video as well as audio feeds for better operational planning and execution, an official said.Ten additional battalions of CRPF are also being deployed in Chhatisgarh sector where the officials have been directed to liaise with the State police contiguous deployment of the force along major arterial roads so that these areas can be effectively dominated and casualties are reduced.
At an operational conference of the paramilitary chaired by CRPF Director General Dilip Trivedi, Telangana/Chhattisgarh border was identified as crucial for offensive against banned Communist Party of India (Maoist) in Bastar.
Sector offices have asked to identify place for pre and post induction training and equipping them with essential weapons and equipment. The Sector offices have also been directed to appoint effective commanders as in-charge in Naxal areas. The need for developing junior leadership in combat roles was also underscored at the meeting.To further boost the operational mobilization in Naxal areas, the paramilitary is exploring the possibility of hiring helicopters from private players in case of emergency.
Non-availability of AlH Dhruv helicopters for operational requirement is causing hindrance in Chhattisgarh, officials added.