Innovative step by Himachal Pradesh Police aims to boost comfort and efficiency in extreme weather
Munish Sood
MANDI: In a significant step toward ensuring the well-being of frontline personnel, traffic police officers in Bilaspur district are set to get relief from the sweltering summer heat with the introduction of air-conditioned (AC) helmets.
This pilot initiative, launched by the Bilaspur Police, is currently under trial and aims to help personnel perform their duties more effectively under extreme temperatures, which often cross 40°C in the region.
AC helmets on trial — Full rollout after success
Superintendent of Police (SP) of Bilaspur, Sandeep Dhawal, announced the development during a recent press briefing. He informed that select traffic personnel have been provided with AC helmets as part of a pilot run. If the trial proves successful, all traffic police officers posted in high-heat zones will be equipped with these specially designed helmets.
Enhancing efficiency under extreme conditions
“The purpose of introducing AC helmets is to provide much-needed relief to traffic police officers who are deployed under harsh sun for long hours,” SP Dhawal said. “By reducing heat stress, these helmets will help officers stay focused, energetic, and effective in managing traffic without experiencing fatigue or discomfort.”
The move is expected to not only improve working conditions for the personnel but also ensure smoother traffic management for the public without any service disruptions caused by weather-related exhaustion.
How the AC helmet works
The helmet features a compact battery-operated cooling system embedded within its structure. Once fully charged, the cooling unit can function effectively for four to five hours, providing a continuous stream of cool air to the wearer. Designed specifically for outdoor duty, these helmets are expected to set a new benchmark in police gear innovation.
Heatwave-ready policing in Himachal
Though Himachal Pradesh is known for its cooler climate in some parts, regions like Bilaspur experience intense summer conditions.
With mercury levels climbing to around 40°C, the initiative arrives as a much-needed intervention to safeguard personnel welfare during peak heat months.
If the trial succeeds, Bilaspur could become a model district in implementing climate-resilient policing tools, potentially inspiring similar initiatives across the country.
