As part of the Safe City project, the Bengaluru police department has strategically established numerous ‘Neravu’ centers across key areas of the city. These centers serve as emergency hubs, specifically crafted to cater to the welfare of women and the general public. Each center is anticipated to be furnished with essential amenities such as a first aid box, fans, bunk beds, chairs, a sink, a restroom, emergency contact details, and prominently displayed information about the nearest police station.
However, a recent investigation undertaken by Public TV has exposed the dismal conditions prevailing within these ‘Neravu’ centers. Despite their intended purpose, many of these establishments lack even the most fundamental facilities. Inadequately stocked first aid boxes fail to contain the necessary emergency supplies crucial for treating accident victims. Shockingly, several centers, including one situated in front of the Vidhana Soudha, the seat of power, have been found to be shuttered.
The inception of the ‘Neravu’ centers was conceived as a significant endeavor under the Safe City project, aiming to provide essential rest areas for women, patients, and the public. Ideally, these centers should offer beds, drinking water, and first aid provisions. However, the reality paints a starkly different picture, with many centers grappling with severe deficits in basic amenities, and some even ceasing operations altogether.
For instance, the ‘Neravu’ center near KR Circle lacks drinking water, essential medicines in the first aid kit, and a sufficient water supply in the restroom. Similarly, the center near Chalukya Circle, in close proximity to the Vidhana Soudha, encounters similar challenges, with no police presence and locked doors. Even at the Corporation Circle, a ‘Neravu’ cabin lacks a first aid kit and necessary medicines for emergencies.
Despite the appointment of female constables at each ‘Neravu’ center, the glaring infrastructure deficits have prompted public scrutiny regarding their efficacy and purpose. The absence of basic amenities undermines the core essence of the ‘Neravu’ centers, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate attention and corrective measures by the authorities.
