Police sources said existing PCR teams were growing increasingly inefficient and some were known to have ties with criminals.

“Our old teams were not responding well in time of need. Due to improper functioning, several accused went scot-free,” a senior police officer added. New PCR members are undergoing a five-day training programme, both in classes and in the field, where they are taught how to apprehend criminals, use walky-talkies, employ arms and tend to the maintenance of their weapons.

The PCR team was initially formed in Jalandhar five years ago and consisted of 60 teams, later reduced to 46 teams.

Police sources said at least 80 teams are required to deal with the rapidly expanding city, but authorities can only stretch their manpower to 46 units.

Inspector Jasvir Singh Randhwa, head of the new PCR team, said that new recruits are necessary to improve city policing, adding that the old PCR had been creating trouble.