Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Police is set to induct hundreds of new vehicles as part of a major upgrade, replacing aging ones that have been worn out through constant use in maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and providing VIP escorts.

A total allocation of ₹75.50 crore has been set aside for the initiative. Of this, a project proposal worth ₹42.39 crore has already been submitted to the state government for the purchase of 373 vehicles under this year’s budget allocation. An additional ₹33.11 crore from the vehicle scrappage incentive will also be utilised to procure more vehicles. Combined, these funds are expected to bring around 600 new vehicles onto the roads — accounting for nearly 10% of the police force’s entire fleet.

Currently, the Kerala Police operates 5,948 vehicles across all departments, including those undergoing condemnation and scrapping procedures. Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs), such as jeeps and cars, make up the majority, with 3,402 LMVs deployed across police districts. The department also operates 10 bulletproof vehicles for VVIP security.

Two-wheelers come next in terms of fleet size, with 1,886 motorcycles used primarily for traffic patrol. The department also owns 241 buses, 142 Medium Motor Vehicles (MMVs), 36 ambulances, 28 crane recovery vans, 14 water cannons, 24 water tankers, 49 lorries, 18 Vajra and Mini Vajra riot-control vehicles, and 40 other Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs). Additionally, the police force maintains 63 boats for coastal and inland water operations.

However, the expansion of the fleet has brought to light a persistent issue -- a shortage of drivers. Many police stations and outposts are currently facing a crunch in trained drivers. Of the 3,136 sanctioned posts for Police Constable Drivers, 2,971 are currently filled. The remaining 165 vacancies, including 69 already reported to the Kerala Public Service Commission (KPSC), are expected to be filled through fresh recruitment.