Smile, You’re on Track! Indian Railways Unveils Nationwide CCTV Rollout for Safer Journeys

As part of a historic effort to boost safety of passengers, Indian Railways has taken the decision to fit CCTV cameras on all 74,000 passenger coaches and 15,000 locomotives nationwide. The scheme, sanctioned following successful trial runs, is a giant leap towards a secure, intelligent, and safe travel for crores of daily passengers.

 

Key Highlights
 

Total Coverage:

Every coach will be fitted with four dome-mounted CCTV cameras—two at each entry point for safe observation of entry and exit points. Six cameras will be fitted on every locomotive for total 360-degree observation with one camera at the front, rear, both sides, and inside the driver's cabin. Desk microphones will also enhance audio observation inside locomotive cabins.

 

Privacy-First Approach:

Cameras will be installed only in places of common movement near the doors and will never enter private areas. This maintains the privacy of the passengers while enabling effective monitoring of places of high traffic where accidents are likely to occur.

 

Advanced Technology:

The cameras would be certified by STQC and would be able to capture high-quality images while driving at more than 100 kmph and during the night. Integration with the IndiaAI mission is suggested, enabling the real-time detection of threats, behavioral analysis, and predictive safety solutions using artificial intelligence.

 

Crime Deterrence:

The authorities note that the increased CCTV coverage would be an effective deterrent against organized crime, pickpocketing, and general harassment against vulnerable travelers such as children and women.

 

Leadership and Vision:

The decision was made in a high-level meeting by Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu, which reflects the government's willingness to improve railway infrastructure and give a top-level priority to passenger safety. The installation of cameras in the overall movement areas of coaches is done to ensure greater security and safety of passengers. Without invading privacy, these cameras will help identify culprits," read the official statement. 

 

Source: CNBC-TV18, The Hindu Business Line, Indian PSU, Mathrubhumi, NDTV, ANI, India TV News, The Statesman.