TV
It will be a testing time for Odisha Swift Action Force (OSAF), a specialised wing of Odisha Police to prove its efficacy to augment security and other arrangements during the nine day festival of Rath Yatra in Puri starting Sunday.
The newly inducted OSAF personnel would be seen in action for the first time during the festival that draws lakhs of devotees from across the world.
With the moto, ‘We Serve, We Protect’, OSAF personnel have been advised to be on their toes for the mega event which is a matter of pride for Odisha as it is known for its warm hospitality.
Here is a quick look on OSAF:
- It is a specialised force created to deal with communal riots, serious law and order disturbances and religious festivals.
- OSAF has been inaugurated on June 23, 2017 by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik
Uniform: Dark blue (Black blue Dangri with OSAF written in White) black shoes and black helmet.
Strength and Manpower
- 316 personnel draw from various armed police Battalions and district police force.
- Trained on the lines of Rapid Action Force (RAF), RAF Academy for Public Order, Meerut.
- 40 master trainers trained the manpower recruited under OSAF.
Deployments:
- 3 Companies of OSAF would be stationed at Cuttack, Balasore, Rourkela under the command and control of the Commandants of OSAP 6TH Battalion , OSAP 5th Battalion Baripada and 4th
Equipment:
- The OSAF team will have a riot control gear, tear smoke, weapons and a first aid kit.
- The force also is equipped with portable fire extinguisher, water canon, Vajra vehicle with multiple launcher and anti-riot guns.
