THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state police have dropped the plans to purchase more all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) as they were found unsuitable due to loud engine sound as well as navigation problems in Kerala forests. At present, the state police have four six-seater Polaris ATVs which were purchased specifically for anti-Naxal operations. The state police recently proposed to purchase four more ATVs - two six-seaters and two two-seaters. But the plan was dropped considering the disadvantages. Instead, the police preferred four-wheel drive vehicles.
According to home department sources, the state police had reported that ATVs were found to be unsuitable for operations and forest navigation owing to their loud engine sound and thick density of Kerala forests. High maintenance cost, low fuel efficiency and lack of service centres were also pointed out as disadvantages of ATVs. The police also cited that four-wheel drive vehicles can be used for regular use by police stations as well as on hilly and steep terrains. They also have advantages like fuel efficiency, low service costs and good service network.
Considering this, the government dropped the plans to purchase four more ATVs and instead decided to buy nine four-wheel drive vehicles. Already the state police have 150-odd four-wheel drive vehicles. The four Polaris vehicles purchased by the police in 2014 are now stationed in Malappuram, Kannur, Palakkad and Wayanad districts and are being used for forest patrolling. The US-made ATVs are known for their high performance, especially in rough and tough terrains like jungles to deserts.
