Ahmedabad Traffic Police Launch ‘Cool Jacket’ Pilot to Beat Extreme Heat

With summer temperatures in Ahmedabad frequently crossing 40°C, traffic police personnel stationed on busy roads face severe physical and mental strain due to prolonged exposure to heatwaves. In a bid to address this challenge, the Ahmedabad Traffic Police has reportedly introduced an innovative pilot project titled ‘Cool Jacket’, aimed at improving working conditions for on-duty officers.

The initiative has been reportedly rolled out in collaboration with Mahila Housing Trust (MHT) and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). As part of the pilot phase, these specially designed cooling jackets have been distributed to traffic personnel stationed at Pakwan Char Rasta on S.G. Highway, one of the city’s busiest intersections.

The ‘Cool Jacket’ is a technologically enhanced garment designed to provide relief in extreme heat. Equipped with small built-in fans powered by a rechargeable power bank, the jacket can be activated with a simple on-off switch. Once turned on, the internal cooling system helps reduce body temperature by approximately 5 to 7 degrees Celsius compared to the surrounding environment. The design ensures that air circulates continuously within the jacket, preventing sweat buildup and reducing discomfort.

Additionally, the jacket features an innovative ice collar mechanism. When moistened, the collar releases cool air around the neck and head, offering protection against heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke.

The project is being implemented under the broader Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan, which focuses on mitigating the impact of rising temperatures on vulnerable groups. Feedback from traffic personnel using the jackets will be collected by MHT to evaluate their effectiveness and practicality. If the pilot proves successful, the initiative may be expanded to include more personnel and other frontline workers across the city.

The Mahila Housing Trust has been actively working on climate resilience and heat adaptation strategies for several years. This initiative not only enhances comfort for traffic police but is also expected to improve their efficiency and overall well-being. Lightweight and made from durable materials, the ‘Cool Jacket’ could emerge as a vital solution for outdoor workers facing extreme weather conditions.

The Ahmedabad Traffic Police’s forward-thinking approach highlights a growing emphasis on safeguarding frontline workers, ensuring they can perform their duties effectively even during intense heatwaves.