LUCKNOW, Jan. 4 -- Amid rise in the incidents of theft in city's peripheral areas during winter, Lucknow Police have begun strengthening night vigilance by roping in chowkidars (watchmen) in villages. Cops say with longer nights, foggy conditions and reduced movement after dark, city outskirts have emerged as vulnerable pockets for thefts, particularly in semi-urban and village areas bordering Lucknow. To address this, senior officers are holding regular meetings with chowkidars to build coordination and restore trust, enabling quicker flow of information during night hours. "Chowkidars are the first to notice unusual movement in villages. Strengthening their role helps us respond faster and prevent crimes," said a senior police officer, adding that the initiative focuses on night patrolling and early reporting of suspicious activity. During a workshop with chowkidars at Nigohan police station under Mohanlalganj tehsil on Friday, ACP Vikas Kumar Pandey instructed them to maintain constant vigil in their respective areas and immediately report any suspicious movement, rumours or activities to local police station. He also directed them to closely monitor anti-social elements and outsiders while working impartially and strengthening public trust through cooperative conduct. "Even the smallest incident must be taken seriously," he said, stressing the importance of a robust information network at the village level. Police said the move is especially significant ahead of the upcoming election season, when maintaining peace and preventing criminal activity remains a priority. Officials said welfare initiatives are also aimed at boosting morale among chowkidars....