Officials say that the Noida Police is looking for electric vehicles to patrol the city and perform other duties, amid growing environmental concerns.
The police also requested that 60 vehicles be replaced with newer models. They highlighted their poor condition and high maintenance costs, which totalled more than Rs 2 crore.
The current number of vehicles in the commissionerate is around 400, which includes those on emergency 112 services. The local authorities are requesting the replacement of 66 vehicles that are in poor condition. In addition, the state government has requested EVs.
Alok Singh, Police Commissioner, stated that a proposal to introduce electric vehicles was discussed with the relevant government agencies and their approval is awaiting.
“Electric Vehicles are the way forward and as a responsible police force, we certainly do not want to leave behind a carbon footprint. The EVs would be used for patrolling in urban areas and could also be put for other duties as suited,” said the Noida police chief.
He also stated that his department had written to both the Greater Noida Authority and the Noida Authority regarding the replacement of a fleet vehicle they provided nearly a decade back.
Officials stated that the police requested a replacement for 66 vehicles older than 8 years, with most of them clocking close to 2 lakh km.
According to letters, police spent Rs 2 crore on maintenance for these 66 vehicles, which are now reported as having broken down and remain out of use.
Maruti Gypsy, Mahindra Bolero, and Toyota Innova are the vehicles in need of replacement. Officials said that at least five vehicles were removed from the road in 2020, while the rest are being used in poor condition by the police.
“Some of the Maruti Gypsies are allotted for VIP duties. Noida being right next to Delhi and a gateway to Uttar Pradesh sees frequent VIP visits which have dignitaries in SUVs that move at a fast pace on the expressways. Imagine the old, diesel-engine Gypsies trying to keep pace with the new Innovas and Fortuners,” a senior police officer.
