In a decisive step to enhance law enforcement mobility and operational preparedness, SML Mahindra Limited has supplied 360 Special Police Buses to the Maharashtra Police, reinforcing the force’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively across the state. A flag-off ceremony was held in Pune, attended by senior Maharashtra Police leadership, including Shri Deepak Pandey, Additional Director General of Police and Director of Police Communications, along with the Special Inspector General of Police and the Inspector General of Police (Motor Transport). Representing SML Mahindra at the ceremony were Mr. Prashant Kumar, All India Marketing Head, and Mr. Saurabh Sehgal, Head – Institutional Sales. This large-scale deployment underscores SML Mahindra’s continued commitment to supporting India’s security forces with reliable, purpose-built mobility solutions.
The Maharashtra Police, widely regarded as one of the country’s most respected and efficient law enforcement agencies, operates across diverse terrains and demanding environments – from densely populated urban centres to remote and challenging regions. Recognising these operational realities, the newly inducted Special Police Buses have been engineered for durability, comfort, and performance, ensuring readiness for routine duties as well as critical law-and-order situations. The fleet will support personnel movement, coordinated deployments, surveillance, crowd control, and emergency response operations across Maharashtra.
At the core of this initiative is the SML Prestige Mini Bus, a compact yet versatile multi-role vehicle developed to meet the evolving requirements of modern policing. Built on the SML Prestige platform with a 2,815 mm wheelbase and six-tyre configuration, the vehicle delivers enhanced stability, reliability, and ride quality across varied operating conditions. Its compact footprint and robust engineering make it well suited for both urban patrols and extended field deployment
The vehicle is extensively customised with advanced exterior features to enhance visibility, situational awareness, and operational effectiveness. These include a stone-protection mesh, a four-side camera system with recording capability, two display screens for camera footage, sequential LED bar lights with integrated siren, high-intensity floodlights, a roof-mounted platform, a public address system, and a dedicated reverse camera. Together, these systems strengthen operational control during patrol, surveillance, and security duties.
Inside, the SML Prestige Mini Bus is configured for emergency response and field operations. It features a rear flap door, a berth, and a folding canvas stretcher to enable immediate assistance to injured personnel or civilians. The vehicle accommodates 14 occupants, including the driver, and provides dedicated storage for helmets, shields, and batons (lathis), ensuring organised stowage and quick access to essential equipment.
For extended operations, the mini bus is equipped with an independent inverter system that powers floodlights without drawing from the main vehicle battery. The inverter can be charged through an external 220 V power supply. A foldable working table is also integrated to facilitate on-the-spot documentation and administrative tasks, improving field efficiency.
