Cuttack/Bhubaneswar, April 15: Questions have surfaced over the utilisation of government funds after cooling jackets worth Rs10 lakh, procured for traffic personnel, have reportedly gone missing. The jackets, meant to provide relief from extreme heat by reducing perceived temperature by 10–12 degrees, are no longer in use and their whereabouts remain unknown.
The cooling jackets were introduced in July 2018 during the tenure of then Police Commissioner Y.B. Khurania as part of efforts to strengthen traffic management in the twin cities. Around 300 jackets were distributed to traffic constables working in temperatures above 40°C.
However, ground reports suggest that most traffic personnel are either unaware of the jackets or have stopped using them due to discomfort. Many claimed the jackets caused excessive sweating and made duty more difficult. As a result, personnel are often seen seeking shade during duty hours, especially at smaller traffic posts.
Infrastructure at traffic points also remains inadequate. While some posts have fans installed, many are either non-functional or provide little relief by circulating hot air.
Adding to the concern, AC helmets introduced in 2024 to combat heat stress have also reportedly disappeared. Initially, 10 helmets were distributed with a promise to procure over 200 more in subsequent phases. However, no further supply was made, and even the existing units are now untraceable.
With temperatures soaring, traffic personnel continue to work under harsh conditions with minimal support. Many bring drinking water from home, while some make informal arrangements for basic necessities.
Police Commissioner S. Dev Datta Singh has stated that he is unaware of the current status of the cooling jackets and AC helmets. He, however, mentioned that water facilities have been arranged at select locations for personnel on duty.
