Latest news with #DCPs
IOL News
10 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
Spaza shop fund under fire: Questions over R500m initiative
The R500m Fund, launched to bolster South African-owned spaza shops in townships and rural areas with stock, infrastructure upgrades, and training, has come under intense scrutiny. Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers A VIRTUAL briefing by the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) on the progress of the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund descended into chaos last week, with MPs from across the political spectrum lambasting officials for 'lacklustre' responses, unresolved corruption risks, and a controversial 'middlemen' supply model that critics warned could hijack the initiative. The Fund, launched to bolster South African-owned spaza shops in townships and rural areas with stock, infrastructure upgrades, and training, was under intense scrutiny. Only 3 000 to 5 000 applications have been received — a fraction of the estimated 200 000 spaza shops nationwide — raising concerns about exclusion, bureaucratic hurdles, and whether foreign-owned shops were being sidelined. The most explosive revelations centred around the Fund's reliance on three unnamed Delivery Channel Partners (DCPs), private wholesalers tasked with supplying spaza shops. Opposition MPs accused the state of creating a 'monopoly' for connected insiders. 'Why are these DCPs not listed in the presentation? Who are they? What are their markups? This is a middlemen scheme!' charged the DA's Nico Pienaar, demanding the Gazette records detailing their selection. FF+'s Henk van den Berg echoed concerns: 'Do spaza shops have to buy from these DCPs? Who pays them, the Fund or the shop owners?' DSBD Deputy Director-General Qinisile Delwa sidestepped specifics, stating only that DCPs were 'vital intermediaries'. Lwandiso Makupula from the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (Sefda) later admitted that 58% of spaza shops are Somali-owned and 25% Ethiopian-owned, leaving just 8% eligible for the Fund. But MPs were unmoved. 'This is a recipe for fronting. Cartels will use locals as fronts to access funds,' warned the ANC's Peter Mabilo. Pienaar slammed the Fund's 'reckless' exemption of spaza shops from immediate Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and tax registration, calling it a 'free pass for abuse'. 'We're bleeding taxpayers, yet here's a state fund allowing six months' grace before registration. This is anti-formalisation and anti-growth,' he said. DSBD offered no justification, deepening suspicions of lax oversight. With Gauteng dominating applications, rural provinces risk being left behind. 'Your roadshows are failing. Rural spaza shops are lifelines, why aren't they prioritised?' asked chairperson Sonja Boshoff (DA). The ANC's Moses Modise blasted the DSBD's 'pathetic' outreach: 'Where are the community radio ads? The local newspaper campaigns?' Municipal licensing emerged as another crisis point. Many townships lacked digital systems, leaving spaza shops in limbo. 'Some municipalities don't even have licensing capacity. Is DSBD engaging the South African Local Government Association (Salga)?' Boshoff pressed. Delwa conceded that only the Northern Cape was piloting e-licensing, while KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape lead. Despite Makupula's assurance that 'misused grants convert to loans', MPs remained sceptical. 'Where are the anti-corruption measures? Who monitors officials?' Boshoff asked. The MK Party's Sarah Mokoena highlighted registration chaos: 'The online system crashes constantly. Shop owners think they're registered when they're not.'
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Indian Express
Delhi's danger zones: Hamdard Nagar, UER 3 make it to list of 78 ‘dark spots'
A total of 78 dark spots have been identified across the city this year by the Delhi Traffic Police. While some areas — Dhaula Kuan, Ashram Chowk, Ring Road, Mayapuri Chowk and Peeragarhi Chowk — are on the list again this time, there are some new entrants too, like Urban Extension Road (UER) 3 near Yashobhoomi Centre and Hamdard Nagar. There are 35 dark spots, or accident-prone zones, in Traffic Zone 1, which comprises the Central, Eastern and Northern Ranges. And 43 'dark spots in the South, West and New Delhi ranges, which constitute Traffic Zone 2. The Traffic Police will now write to the DCPs of the respective areas to take measures to counter frequent accidents. A traffic police officer said black spots are identified based on the concentration of accidents at a specific place, and where some form of remedial measure can be introduced to reduce them. According to the police, a 'black spot' is a 500-metre diameter area where either three fatal accidents occur, or 10 accidents (fatal or simple) happen, in a given year. Accident-prone areas In New Delhi, West Delhi, and South Delhi ranges, the most accident-prone areas are Sarai Kale Khan, Rajokri Flyover, near Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, Ashram Chowk, Dwarka Sector 23, and Zakhira Flyover, among others. The total number of accidents in these black spots in 2024- 25 (till May) was 371, with 145 being fatal. Last year, the total number of accidents in the whole of Traffic Zone 2 was 1,013, traffic police data showed. Sarai Kale Khan saw 20 accidents; Rajokri flyover had 16 accidents; Urban Extension Road (UER) 3 road near Yashobhoomi Centre and Qutubgarh Road witnessed 12 accidents each; and Zakhira Flyover saw 11 accidents. The highest number of fatal accidents among the three ranges was at Rajokri Flyover and UER 3 (Yashobhoomi Centre), with 7 accidents each. Qutubgarh road, Zakhira flyover, and the signal near Pul Prahaldpur saw five fatal accidents each, data showed. The numbers – The New Delhi range saw 70 fatal accidents in 2024. In the first five months of 2025, till May 15, the range saw 71 fatal accidents. – In the Southern range, fatal accidents in 2024 were 73, while in 2025 till May 15, it was 64. – In the Western range, fatal accidents in 2024 were 132, while in 2025, it was 111. – In 2025, till May 15, the number of accidents in Traffic Zone 2 stood at 942. – Among the blackspots in Traffic Zone 1, NH 24 and NH 44 had three fatal incidents each. 'We are going to initiate regular road safety audits to point out defects in road engineering and lighting, and coordinate with certain civic agencies like the Public Works Department to reduce accidents in the area. We are also in the process of writing to district DCPs to help reduce fatal accident numbers near black spots,' Special CP (Traffic) Ajay Chaudhary said. Additional CP (Traffic) Dinesh Kumar Gupta said regular awareness campaigns would also be undertaken near these black spots, which will focus on speeding and safety measures.
Indian Express
7 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
24 IPS and 14 DANIPS officers of Delhi Police transferred in major reshuffle
In a major reshuffle, at least 24 IPS officers and 14 DANIPS (Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service) officers of Delhi Police were transferred on Wednesday. Among those transferred are one special commissioner, three joint commissioners, two additional commissioners, 32 deputy commissioners, and additional DCP-rank officers. According to an order from Delhi's home department, 1995-batch IPS David Lalringsanga has been appointed as the special commissioner of SPUWAC (Special Police Unit for Women and Children) and SPUNER (Special Police Unit For North-Eastern Region). Dheeraj Kumar and Rajkumar Singh–both 2004-batch IPS officers–have been made joint commissioners of the Delhi Police Academy and Provisioning and Logistics (P&L) units, respectively. Joint Commissioner Vijay Kumar (2007-batch IPS) has been transferred from Delhi Police Housing Corporation Limited (DPHCL) to the Eastern Range (law and order). Additional commissioners Umesh Kumar (2009 batch) and Pratiksha Godara (2011 batch) have been transferred to the Security and DPHCL units, respectively. Godara is currently posted as an additional commissioner in the Special Cell. DCP (outer north) Nidhin Valsan (2012 batch) has been transferred to the central district, and DCP (southeast) Ravi Kumar Singh (2012 batch) has been appointed as DCP (Economic Offences Wing). DCP (welfare) Rajeev Ranjan (2012 batch) has been transferred to Rohini district. Sharad Bhaskar Darade, V Hareshwar Swami, and Sanjeev Kumar Yadav–all 2013-batch IPS officers–have been given the charges of DCPs for traffic, outer-north district, and crime, respectively. Amit Goel, Kushal Pal Singh, and Hemant Tiwari–all 2014-batch IPS officers–have been appointed as DCPs for the southwest, metro, and southeast districts. Other prominent officers transferred include 2015-batch IPS officers Anant Mittal, Rohit Rajbir, and Sandeep Gupta, who have been given the charges of additional DCPs of north, Dwarka, and Rohini, respectively. DCP (P&L) Vinit Kumar (2004-batch DANIPS) has been given the charge of DCP, Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO).
Hans India
24-05-2025
- Hans India
CV Anand holds meet with Gau Seva Assns to ensure a peaceful Bakrid
Hyderabad: Ahead of Bakrid, Hyderabad city police commissioner CV Anand firmly stated that strict measures would be taken against anyone found posting videos of cattle killings on social media. The commissioner urged cow protectors to meticulously abide by the law and cautioned them against taking enforcement into their own hands if they receive any information. During the crucial meeting with various Gau Seva (cow protection) associations to foster a peaceful atmosphere for the celebration, CV Anand advised them to promptly report any information, including photographs and videos, to the police control room by calling on mobile number 8712661155. Furthermore, the commissioner advised against undertaking any unlawful action at city check posts, assuring them of all possible assistance from the Hyderabad City Police. During the discussion, representatives from the Gau Seva Foundations reiterated their unwavering commitment to protecting cows and other cattle, emphasising their efforts to prevent animal cruelty. They highlighted their significant work in promoting cattle protection, cow-based agriculture, and related products, noting the environmental benefits inherent in cow-based farming methods. They underscored the profound moral responsibility felt by Gau Seva protectors to serve and respect cows, recognising their vital role in providing essential products like milk and curd. A key concern raised was the issue of individuals posting videos of cattle killings on social media platforms, with a strong appeal for stringent legal action against such perpetrators. The meeting saw the active participation of Vikram Singh Mann, Additional CP, Law and Order, alongside prominent representatives from Goseva organizations. Attendees included Kolishetti Sivakumar, Chairman, Yuga Tulsi Foundation; Deepak Singh, President, Gorakshak Dal, Telangana other dedicated Gau Seva protectors, as well as DCPs, Additional DCPs, and ACPs were also present.
Time of India
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
With India-Pakistan escalating conflict, Delhi identifies metro stations, basements as public air raid shelters
Delhi Police has stepped up its emergency preparedness in light of rising regional tensions. Officials said on Saturday that the force has begun identifying basements across the capital to serve as shelters in case of air raids or missile strikes. A list of children and elderly residents is also being prepared to ensure swift evacuation if needed. #Operation Sindoor India-Pakistan Clash Live Updates| Pak moving troops to border areas? All that's happening Why India chose to abstain instead of 'No Vote' against IMF billion-dollar funding to Pakistan How Pak's jihadi general Munir became trapped in his own vice 'All district units have been asked to mark safe shelters, especially basements of residential and commercial buildings and metro stations,' a senior official said. The decision comes amid escalating hostilities between India and Pakistan. Authorities are focusing not only on quick response mechanisms but also on educating the public about how to act in case of aerial threats. 'The idea is to ensure quick access to those who might need assistance during an emergency. This data will help the police and civil defence personnel act faster and more effectively,' a senior police officer explained. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Google Brain Co-Founder Andrew Ng, Recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo Public awareness and community involvement To support the effort, civil defence volunteers, resident welfare associations (RWAs), and local beat constables have been brought in. Their job is to spread awareness on what to do if warning sirens are sounded—take cover, avoid open spaces, and follow official updates. 'The Delhi Police is not only working on rapid response mechanisms but also proactively educating people about the precautions they should take in the event of aerial attacks,' said another official. Live Events Instructions have also gone out to all district Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) to evaluate available infrastructure for shelter use. They've been asked to work closely with the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and municipal bodies for resource allocation. A new disaster unit for the capital To add teeth to the response strategy, Delhi Police has formed a new unit called the Delhi Police Disaster Response Force (DPDRF). Comprising around 270 personnel, including constables and sub-inspectors, the unit is undergoing a six-week intensive training at the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) campus in Ghaziabad. 'These personnel are being equipped with specialised skills to carry out rescue operations during incidents such as fires, building collapses, and urban floods. They are also being prepared to respond effectively in the event of an air raid,' the officer said. Of the 270 members, about 150 have already completed their training. The remaining are expected to finish by the end of this month. After this, the force will be split into three deployable units. Officials are considering placing them in key zones across South, East, and New Delhi to cut down emergency response time. CBRN readiness added to force capabilities Apart from handling natural disasters and urban emergencies, the new unit will also be trained to deal with chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) emergencies. 'This expands their operational scope significantly,' said a police source. Such advanced capabilities are in line with the kind of threats large cities might face during armed conflicts or large-scale emergencies. Underground metros seen as refuge in global conflicts Across history, underground transport systems have often become impromptu bomb shelters during wartime. London's Tube protected citizens during World War II. More recently, the people of Kyiv sought shelter in their metro stations during the 2022-2023 conflict with Russia. Residents carried mattresses and pets underground to spend the night, escaping airstrikes. These shelters also provided access to food, water, mobile charging and rest. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) operates 71 underground stations across the capital. Hauz Khas, at 29 metres below the surface, is the deepest, followed by Chawri Bazar at 25 metres. On average, these stations lie 15 metres underground. Out of the 394.4-km operational metro network, 106.1 km are underground. While not originally built as bomb shelters, Delhi's underground stations offer a safer alternative than remaining above ground during air raids. The Yellow Line has the most underground stations (20), with key interchanges like Chawri Bazar and Hauz Khas. The Magenta Line features 15 such stations, the Pink Line has 12, and the Violet Line includes 11. Global models offer inspiration In Moscow, many metro stations were built during the Cold War with bomb-shelter features. Park Pobedy station, 84 metres deep, is one of the world's deepest. Admiralteyskaya in St Petersburg goes even deeper at 86 metres. These were specifically designed to serve both transport and military defence purposes. Kyiv's Cold War-era metro infrastructure was repurposed in 2023 to protect hundreds of thousands during aerial attacks. These stations served not just as shelters but as hubs of community life under siege. In Prague, Cold War-era OSM shelters were designed to protect people from nuclear, chemical, and biological warfare for up to 72 hours. Equipped with 20-tonne blast doors and air purification systems, they remain a critical part of the city's emergency plan. Germany, too, has a legacy of turning metro systems into bunkers. In recent years, German authorities have revisited this strategy, compiling lists of structures that could be reconfigured into emergency shelters. Delhi's plan shaped by history, driven by need Though the Delhi Metro's underground network was not designed with war in mind, it mirrors other cities where such infrastructure has become lifelines during conflict. Authorities here are learning from global experience while preparing for all scenarios—be it natural disaster, terror strike, or open conflict. Officials say awareness drives and preparedness drills will continue in the coming days. Residents have been urged to stay calm and cooperate with authorities.
