The Kovalam police station in Kerala relies heavily on a single, outdated and worn-out jeep to respond to emergencies, but it’s often the locals who arrive at the scene before the police do. The jeep, which was procured nine years ago, is in a deplorable condition, with a rusted and dented roof, and parts of it are held together by sheer luck. The vehicle’s engine still runs, but the tires are worn out, causing it to lean to one side and struggle on steep roads.
The situation is further compounded by the fact that another jeep, sent for repairs to the AR camp’s motor division, has yet to be returned. This leaves the police with just one usable jeep, which is used by the Station House Officer (SHO). The tire issues make it difficult for the officer to navigate the station’s jurisdiction, including the popular Kovalam tourist hub.
The Kovalam police are frustrated by their inability to reach crime scenes on time, and they believe that replacing the outdated jeep with a new one would greatly improve their efficiency in conducting investigations. The current state of their vehicle is not only a hindrance to their work but also a concern for public safety. The delay in providing a new jeep has resulted in the locals taking charge of emergency situations, often before the police can even arrive, which is a source of worry for the police department.