The Odisha government has taken a significant step towards enhancing traffic management and combating cybercrime in the state. With the formation of the Traffic and Road Safety Wing (T&RSW) and the establishment of 20 additional cyber police stations, the government aims to address the growing challenges in these areas.
According to an official order viewed by TOI, the T&RSW will operate under the direct supervision of the Odisha Director General of Police (DGP). The government has allocated 66 positions for the T&RSW headquarters in Bhubaneswar, along with an additional 1,930 posts for deployment at the district level.
DGP Y B Khurania highlighted the core responsibilities of the T&RSW, which include traffic management, enforcement, emergency response, road safety enhancement, and technology utilization. The new wing will also focus on strengthening partnerships with NGOs and engaging the public in safety initiatives.
In addition to the T&RSW, the government has sanctioned 987 new posts for 20 newly-created cybercrime and economic offenses police stations. These efforts are aimed at addressing the growing menace of cybercrimes in the state. Khurania emphasized the need to strengthen existing cyber police stations and equip them with the necessary expertise to tackle sophisticated cyber threats.
Over the past decade, Odisha has witnessed a significant increase in cybercrime incidents. Police records indicate a 1917% rise in cyber cases, from 124 in 2014 to 2501 in 2024. The financial impact of cybercrime has also escalated, with monetary losses soaring from Rs 8.97 crore in 2018 to Rs 154.5 crore in 2024, marking a staggering 1,622% growth.
To address these challenges, the existing 14 cyber stations will be reinforced with additional experts, including IT professionals, cyber forensic experts, and finance analysts. The 20 new cyber police stations will also be equipped with specialized personnel to handle a wide range of cyber threats.
The Odisha government’s proactive approach to enhancing traffic management and cybercrime prevention is commendable. By establishing the T&RSW and expanding the cyber police infrastructure, the government is demonstrating its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. With a focus on utilizing technology, data-driven decisions, and strategic partnerships, Odisha is poised to address the evolving challenges posed by cybercrime and traffic management effectively.