Marathwada Police Overhaul Physical Recruitment Test Schedule After Tragic Incident
In a significant move prompted by a tragic event, the nine police units spanning Marathwada's eight districts have implemented a revised schedule for physical recruitment tests. This decision comes after a 26-year-old aspirant collapsed and died during the selection process in Beed on Wednesday, highlighting the severe risks associated with conducting strenuous activities in extreme heat.
Revised Timings to Mitigate Health Risks
Previously held during the daytime, the physical tests will now be conducted in two distinct sessions: from 5 am to 9 am and from 5 pm to 8 pm. These sessions will take place at well-lit grounds to ensure visibility and safety. Police officials have confirmed that only the 1,600-meter race, widely regarded as the most challenging event, will be scheduled during these cooler hours. This strategic adjustment aims to minimize dangers such as sunstroke and dehydration, which are particularly prevalent in the current climatic conditions.
Details of the Fatal Incident and Medical Response
According to a senior police officer, the candidate who tragically lost his life appeared to have suffered from dehydration during the ground test. This condition likely triggered a fatal heart attack. The officer emphasized that a detailed medical report is still awaited to provide conclusive insights into the exact cause of death. In response, authorities have ramped up safety measures across all testing locations.
Beed Superintendent of Police Navneet Kanwat assured that comprehensive arrangements have been made for candidates. These include the provision of tents, ample drinking water, designated resting areas, and on-site medical teams. "After the unfortunate incident, we have shifted all ground events to the early morning and evening hours to protect the health and well-being of all participants," Kanwat stated.
Implementation Across Districts
The revised schedule has been uniformly adopted across multiple districts to ensure consistency and safety. In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar city, Police Commissioner Pravin Pawar announced that candidates are now required to report by 4 am, with physical tests running from 5 am to 11 am. "The endurance run is being completed in the early hours to significantly reduce exposure to harsh sunlight," Pawar explained.
Similar modifications have been enforced in Nanded, Dharashiv, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar rural areas. Here, reporting times have been fixed at 4 am, and tests will continue until 11 am. Notably, the rural unit in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has gone a step further by arranging night stay facilities for candidates. This initiative is specifically designed to accommodate those traveling from distant locations and to mitigate the effects of the prevailing heatwave.
Broader Implications and Future Precautions
This incident has underscored the critical need for adaptive measures in recruitment processes, especially in regions experiencing extreme weather. The police departments' proactive response reflects a commitment to candidate safety and may set a precedent for other recruitment drives across the state. By prioritizing health through revised timings and enhanced facilities, authorities aim to prevent similar tragedies in the future while maintaining the integrity of the selection process.
