Leave it to me!* India’s “Tourist Police” hit the streets – just dial 100 for instant assistance

▲ The Taj Mahal boosts local tourism economy. (Photo / from Wikimedia)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Many foreign travelers visiting India often encounter persistent touts or taxi drivers trying to overcharge them. Now, Indian police are offering a new service: travelers facing any issues in the country can simply dial “100” from a local number, and Tourist Police will arrive promptly to help.

Anyone who has visited the Taj Mahal has likely had the unpleasant experience of being aggressively approached by souvenir vendors. It’s also common to hear about small hotel staff and taxi drivers near Indian tourist attractions trying to swindle foreign visitors.

From now on, foreign tourists facing any problems in the area can call “100” using a local Indian number for help, without the hassle of going to the police station — Tourist Police will come directly to them.

Rao, the police chief of Agra in Uttar Pradesh, the jurisdiction where the Taj Mahal is located, said that under the new standard operating procedure, when foreign tourists call “100” to report an issue, officers must respond quickly, handle the case on-site, and assist in contacting their family members if needed. He noted that because of the Taj Mahal, Agra has become a major tourist hub, with thousands of foreign visitors arriving daily. Ensuring smooth travel is an undeniable responsibility of the police.

In addition, starting this year, those who report incidents will receive a “yellow slip” similar to a receipt to prevent officers from dismissing cases. If someone feels their case is taking too long or not getting a response, they can present the yellow slip to a senior officer to file a complaint — the officer who initially took the report will be investigated. Rao said that in the future, the police will also promote information about this new measure to hotels and travel agencies. (News source: Central News Agency)