Phase-II RACE Vehicles Strengthen Last-Mile Police Communication in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh DGP Harish Kumar Gupta on Friday inaugurated Phase-II RACE vehicles and advanced communication equipment for eight districts, marking a significant step toward technology-driven policing in the state.

The RACE (Remote Area Communication Enhancement) project aims to ensure continuous and reliable police communication, particularly in forests, hilly terrains, coastal regions, remote locations, and disaster-prone areas where commercial mobile networks often fail.

Meaning and Purpose of Phase-II RACE Vehicles:

Phase-II RACE vehicles are specialized mobile communication hubs designed to bridge connectivity gaps. Each vehicle functions as an independent, self-contained communication center, providing uninterrupted connectivity during law and order operations, natural disasters, elections, protests, fairs, and festivals .

Fleet Details:

In January 2026, the Andhra Pradesh Police inducted 8 four-wheelers and 16 two-wheelers under Phase-II at a cost of ₹2 crore. These vehicles complement the Phase-I fleet , which was implemented in 2018–19 and included 9 four-wheelers and 20 two-wheelers covering nine districts with a budget of ₹2.13 crore.

Phase-I Status and Success:

The Phase-I units remain operational and have proven effective in providing last-mile communication where commercial networks fail. Their success in enabling better coordination for field units during emergencies and critical operations laid the foundation for the Phase-II expansion. The project also received national recognition for best use of technology in police communication, particularly for mitigating losses during natural calamities.

Coordination and Operational Impact:

Beyond police operations, RACE vehicles facilitate faster response and improved coordination between police, revenue, disaster management, and other departments . DGP Gupta highlighted that the system ensures immediate command and control , disaster preparedness, and enhanced law and order management.

Summary of Phase-I vs Phase-II:

With the combined fleet now operating in 17 districts , the Andhra Pradesh Police are strengthening connectivity, rapid response, and technology-enabled field operations , ensuring that even the most remote areas are within reach of effective policing.

DGP Gupta stated, “With the induction of Phase-II RACE vehicles, last-mile communication, disaster preparedness, and law and order management across the state will be further strengthened, marking another step toward modern, technology-driven policing.”