Maharashtra to procure helicopters for Mumbai, Naxal-infested areas

Mumbai, July 22 (ANI): Maharashtra Home Minister R R Patil on Thursday said the State Government is in the process of procuring two helicopters to carry out monitoring and reach sites of emergencies quickly in the city and Naxal-infested areas.

"Besides advanced weaponry, we also felt the need for helicopters. The proposal would be placed before the Cabinet for approval and the helicopters would be procured soon," said Patil.

"The proposal is for two helicopters. One is for the city which faced worst terror attacks and the other is for Naxal- hit areas such as Gadchiroli and Chandrapur that witnessed attacks by Maoists," he added.

Patil further said the helicopters would help the policeman to monitor the situation and take apposite action as per the requirement.

The Maharashtra Government is in the process of modernizing its police force following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

In 2009, 207 new vehicles, including three armoured vehicles, were inducted into the police force.

The police personnel were also provided AK 47s, MP9 guns, speed and amphibious boats. (ANI)