397
/
2
Min Read
In a move aimed at reducing costs and promoting a cleaner environment, the Kolkata Police (KP) is set to induct 200 electric vehicles (EVs) into its transport fleet over the next few months. Around ₹44 crore is likely to be allocated for the project, as the force revives its 2023 EV procurement plan. This will mark the first time that electric vehicles are purchased directly by the police force.
According to sources, the decision comes after nearly 500 old vehicles were scrapped, creating an urgent requirement for replacements. Alongside vehicle procurement, Kolkata Police has also floated a tender for the supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of 25 EV charging stations (60 kW, pedestal type) across various locations within KP limits. The charging infrastructure project is estimated to cost an additional 2.5 crore.
Currently, around 80 vehicles in use are on an eight-year lease. As per the 2023 tender document, the manufacturer awarded the contract will also be responsible for maintaining the fleet for the next four years. Eligibility conditions specify that the manufacturer must have supplied at least 500 electric vehicles to a state or central government department or undertaking in the past three years, and must operate an authorised service station in Kolkata.
The new EVs will be distributed among the traffic, wireless, and other police units, with the traffic department alone expected to receive 78 vehicles. A senior officer at Lalbazar stated that switching to electric vehicles could result in savings of up to ₹50 crore over the next eight years. Police officials said the initiative reflects their intent to contribute to a greener and more sustainable transport system.
Under the plan, at least six fast-charging points will be set up across nine police divisions to support the new fleet. However, a senior officer expressed some reservations regarding the operational efficiency of EVs in active policing duties, particularly in high-demand situations.
