At present, Delhi Police has nearly 500 PCR vans that are either stationed or mobile at almost all the key posts across the national capital.

“The utility of PCR vans cannot be denied. PCR personnel have been able to save many lives last year. We plan to expand our fleet from existing 500 to nearly 630,” Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (PCR) B K Mishra said.

As Delhi is expanding at a fast rate, it becomes important to maintain proper law and order in the city. Hence, we plan to expand the fleet for quicker responses, he said.

The administration also plans to post Commandos in the PCR vans for New Delhi Region.

“We are planning to post Commandos in the PCR vans for New Delhi region as the area has many vital installations. Also, there are regular diplomatic movements in the area,” Mishra said.

Police department is also planning to change the make of vehicles -- from Toyota Qualis to Chevrolet Tavera -- presently used as PCR vans.

“We have decided to use Tavera vehicle as PCR vans. It is because the vehicle has more space and the maker has agreed to mould it according to our requirements,” he said.

According to the official, the department has already got sanction for extra PCR vehicles and it will soon be inducted into the fleet.

However, sources said that the decision was taken considering the thickness of outer body of Tavera which will be helpful to provide security to police personnel inside it.

But Mishra countered it saying, “the decision was taken as Qualis manufacturer stopped its production.” On asked whether the existing PCR vans will be phased out to pave way for the new ones, Mishra said, “We do not plan to give up old PCR vans.” The PCR vans -- which are mobile -- work round the clock to monitor law and order situation in the city.

People can request for police assistance by dialing 100.

The call details are then given to the police personnel in PCR van near the caller's location.

“We ensure that a PCR van does not take more than 10 minutes in the inner areas of the capital region and 20 minutes in the outer areas to reach to the persons in need,” another senior police official said.

Recently, Delhi Police has deputed women constables in most of the PCR vans, especially during odd hours. As many as 45,398 injured persons -- 17,012 in road accidents and 28,386 in other incidents -- were taken to hospital by the PCR staff.

The department has proposed to increase the PCR channels from the present 13 to 20 (that is two channels per district).

Digital trunked radios are also being procured for the PCR motor cycles to replace the old wireless sets.