Janasewa transforms old van into high-tech crime-fighting ‘smart van’

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, June 20: The Janasewa Police Circle, New Road, Kathmandu, has repurposed an old detainee transport van into a state-of-the-art ‘Smart Van’ to support crime investigation and disaster response operations.

What was once a rundown Toyota van gathering dust at the office has now been refurbished and outfitted with essential tools for on-site investigations and emergency response anywhere in the Capital City. 

According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Krishna Kumar Chand of the Janasewa Police Circle, the van is now equipped with critical resources including protective gear, forensic kits, cameras, computers, printers, and disaster rescue equipment --enabling officers to avoid delays caused by scrambling for tools after reaching the scene.

The van, bearing registration number F-AA-0290, is fitted with closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at both the front and rear of the police van. The system can store footage up to 30 days, enhancing evidence collection capabilities. 

“We have also installed wireless internet to facilitate real-time communication and data access,” DSP Chand added.

In addition to surveillance technology, the vehicle houses a stretcher for transporting the injured and investigation gear tailored for heinous crime scenes -- such as clothing and protective equipment for forensic officers at the crime scene. A specialised siren, imported from India, has been added to differentiate the van during emergency operations.

"This Smart Van will greatly enhance our ability to conduct field investigations in a modern, efficient manner and without taking much time," said DSP Chand. “It will also be deployed during operational missions as needed,” he said. 

Originally handed over to the Janasewa Police by the Police Headquarters in 2002, the van had fallen into disrepair after years of use. Today, following comprehensive renovation, it has been upgraded with seven different types of tools and devices for crime scene investigation, disaster response, and operational deployment -- marking a significant step toward modernising policing methods in Nepal.