Punjab Highway Patrol has formally established a Cyber Patrol Unit aimed at strengthening oversight of social media and other digital platforms, marking a step toward expanding law enforcement engagement in the online space. The unit has been set up to monitor digital activity related to Punjab Highway Patrol, respond to public concerns, and ensure that information circulating online reflects verified facts. According to officials, the initiative has been made operational with immediate effect and will continue to function until further orders. The move reflects the growing importance of digital platforms as a space where citizens raise concerns, share feedback, and seek information about public services.
The establishment of the Cyber Patrol Unit was communicated through a notification issued by Punjab Highway Patrol Additional Inspector General of Police Dr Athar Waheed to all relevant officers. The directive outlines the scope of the unit’s responsibilities, which include identifying issues related to Punjab Highway Patrol operations, monitoring public sentiment, and addressing complaints raised online. Officials stated that the unit will also focus on countering misinformation that may affect public understanding or trust. By maintaining an active digital presence, Punjab Highway Patrol aims to ensure that inaccurate or misleading narratives are identified early and addressed through verified communication channels.
The Cyber Patrol Unit will work in coordination with relevant wings of the department to ensure timely reporting and appropriate responses to online issues. This coordinated approach is intended to improve internal communication and ensure that concerns raised by citizens on social media platforms are directed to the appropriate authorities without unnecessary delay. Officials noted that public engagement increasingly takes place online, making it essential for law enforcement agencies to adapt their monitoring and response mechanisms accordingly. The unit’s mandate includes promoting responsible digital behaviour by encouraging constructive dialogue and discouraging the spread of unverified information.
Dr Athar Waheed has directed the Cyber Patrol Unit to operate in line with modern requirements and to prioritize the prompt redressal of public grievances. He emphasized that effective digital monitoring plays an important role in improving public service delivery and maintaining confidence in law enforcement institutions. According to the directive, timely engagement with citizens online can help resolve issues before they escalate and can also provide valuable insights into public concerns related to highway safety, traffic management, and patrol operations. Officials believe that this proactive approach will support transparency and accountability while strengthening the relationship between Punjab Highway Patrol and the communities it serves.
The initiative aligns with broader trends in public sector organizations adopting digital tools to enhance communication and service delivery. As social media continues to shape public discourse, law enforcement agencies are increasingly recognizing the need to maintain an active and responsive online presence. By institutionalizing digital monitoring through a dedicated Cyber Patrol Unit, Punjab Highway Patrol aims to ensure that public feedback is acknowledged, misinformation is addressed, and trust is reinforced through consistent and accurate engagement. The unit is expected to play a continuing role in supporting public safety objectives while adapting to the evolving digital landscape.
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