VIZIANAGARAM: In a significant development for law and order in Vizianagaram district, A.R. Damodar formally assumed charge as the new Superintendent of Police (SP) on Monday, September 15, 2025. His arrival marks a renewed emphasis on critical public safety issues, with an immediate directive to intensify efforts against ganja smuggling, bolster road safety measures, and enhance child protection initiatives across the district. This latest news comes as part of a broader administrative reshuffle within the Andhra Pradesh police force.
New Leadership, Multifaceted Priorities
Upon assuming his duties, SP A.R. Damodar articulated a clear vision for his tenure, signaling a proactive stance on prevailing challenges. This marks his second term as SP in Vizianagaram, bringing with him prior experience in the district. He stressed the government’s unwavering commitment to combating the drug menace and assured the public that their grievances would be addressed in a time-bound manner. His agenda also includes a dedicated focus on improving the district’s road safety record, aiming to significantly reduce accident rates by identifying and mitigating risks in accident-prone zones.
Intensified Campaign Against Ganja Smuggling
Curbing the pervasive issue of ganja smuggling has been identified as a top priority by the new SP. He has instructed all Station House Officers (SHOs) to escalate their efforts and take stringent action against individuals involved in unlawful activities related to drug trafficking. This directive comes at a time when Vizianagaram district has consistently been a transit point for inter-state ganja smuggling operations.
Previous efforts under former SP Vakul Jindal saw substantial seizures and arrests, with significant quantities of ganja confiscated in operations targeting smuggling routes, often originating from neighboring Odisha. Statistics from 2024 indicated 62 cases registered, over 1,650 kilograms of ganja seized, and 218 arrests made. Early 2025 saw further crackdowns, with 24 cases registered and 265 kilograms seized. The current focus under SP Damodar aims to build upon these foundations, dismantling smuggling networks and disrupting the flow of illicit substances that contribute to various societal problems.
Prioritizing Road Safety and Accident Reduction
Road safety remains a paramount concern for the Vizianagaram police department. SP Damodar has explicitly stated that the department will concentrate on minimizing the accident ratio. This proactive approach involves identifying accident hotspots and implementing remedial measures to enhance safety on the district’s roadways. Vizianagaram has experienced a notable annual growth in registered vehicles, with studies indicating an 8% to 13% annual increase, placing greater pressure on existing infrastructure and demanding robust traffic management. Recent incidents, including fatal accidents involving two-wheelers and trains, underscore the urgency of these efforts. The district has also been undertaking road widening and junction improvement projects, indicating an ongoing commitment to infrastructural enhancements that can contribute to safer travel.
Safeguarding Children Through ‘Good Touch-Bad Touch’ Awareness
In a crucial move towards child protection, SP Damodar has mandated the organization of ‘Good Touch-Bad Touch’ awareness programs in all educational institutions. This initiative is designed to equip young students with the knowledge to identify and report inappropriate or harmful physical contact, empowering them to protect themselves. Such programs are vital in creating a safer environment for children and fostering a sense of awareness against potential abuse. Past initiatives in Vizianagaram have included setting up child-friendly corners in police stations to encourage open communication with young individuals during sensitive interactions. The ‘Good Touch-Bad Touch’ campaign is a significant step in reinforcing child safety protocols within the community.
Commitment to Public Service
With the assumption of charge by SP A.R. Damodar, Vizianagaram district is set to witness a focused and comprehensive approach to critical law and order issues. The combination of stringent enforcement against criminal activities like ganja smuggling, proactive measures for road safety, and dedicated programs for child protection reflects a commitment to serving the public interest. The current trending news indicates a determined effort by the new leadership to enhance the safety and security of all residents in the district.
