In a major move to fortify public safety, Ludhiana's top police leadership has rolled out an ambitious security roadmap for 2026. The strategy aims to cleanse the streets of Punjab's industrial capital by fusing cutting-edge technology with community-focused initiatives.
Digital Dragnet and Enhanced Surveillance
Police Commissioner Swapan Sharma, announcing the "Safe City" expansion on Friday, revealed that the plan's cornerstone is a pioneering digital database. This system will maintain real-time records of repeat offenders, including drug peddlers, snatchers, and notorious criminals. A key target is the so-called "migrant criminals" who often flee the city after committing crimes only to resurface later in different areas.
"Access to this database will help police track them regardless of where they relocate," stated Commissioner Sharma. He added that this digital tool would be complemented by the installation of 1,268 additional CCTV cameras at identified vulnerable hotspots across Ludhiana, significantly boosting the force's detection capabilities.
Building on a Year of Stringent Enforcement
The 2026 blueprint follows a year of intense law enforcement action. In 2025, Ludhiana police registered a staggering 1,218 cases under the NDPS Act, leading to 1,580 arrests. The narcotics haul for the year was substantial, including:
- 32 kg of heroin
- 26 kg of opium
- 535 kg of poppy husk
- 100 kg of ganja
In a powerful financial blow to drug networks, properties worth ₹11.4 crore were frozen and 18 structures belonging to peddlers were demolished. The crackdown extended to weapons and gang activity, with police seizing 93 pistols/revolvers and three hand grenades. Recovered stolen property was valued at ₹2.8 crore, encompassing 780 mobile phones and 219 vehicles. This rigorous action contributed to an impressive 92.7% conviction rate for the force.
Policing with a Preventative Heart
Commissioner Sharma emphasised that winning the war on crime requires more than just arrests. The 2026 agenda, therefore, incorporates a strong social pillar focused on prevention, particularly among the city's youth.
The police department plans to collaborate with local schools to promote sports as a healthy alternative and deterrent to drug use. "We will be holding seminars with school authorities to involve more children in sports," Sharma explained. "It channels their energy positively and keeps them away from the reach of smugglers."
Alongside prevention, the force continues its commitment to rehabilitation. Over the past year, it facilitated the admission of 200 users for treatment and ensured medical assistance for nearly 3,000 addicts at local centres.
This multi-pronged strategy of high-tech surveillance, relentless enforcement, and grassroots social engineering marks a comprehensive effort by Ludhiana Police to transform the city's security landscape by 2026.
