Move to upgrade SHO rank at key Vizag police stations

A proposal to elevate the rank of Station House Officers (SHOs) at select police stations in Visakhapatnam is currently under review due to increasing crime rates and rising traffic congestion. Police officials have submitted requests to the Commissioner of Police (CP) for the appointment of Circle Inspectors (CIs) as SHOs at key stations, as well as the establishment of new police stations in expanding areas.

Senior officers have reported a surge in theft cases in police station jurisdictions, including Gajuwaka, Duvvada, Harbour, Malkapuram, and PM Palem. An official noted, “Sub-Inspectors handle most investigations. When the number of cases rises, delays become unavoidable.” He recommended that appointing CIs as SHOs would enhance oversight and expedite investigations.

The city currently has 23 law and order police stations, all headed by CIs. Sub-Inspectors manage traffic and crime police stations under the supervision of CIs. With traffic congestion worsening at busy locations like Jagadamba Junction, Beach Road, and Dwarakanagar, officers believe that upgrading SHO positions at high-traffic stations could improve traffic management.

Police have also emphasized the need for new stations in rapidly growing areas such as Vepagunta, Sheelanagar, Rushikonda, and Endada. Officials mentioned that a similar approach in the Rayalaseema zone successfully reduced crime and facilitated timely promotions. In contrast, promotions within the Visakhapatnam range have been delayed. Sources indicate that the CP may address this issue at a meeting with the Director General of Police (DGP) in Vijayawada on January 6.