The Public Works Department (PWD) has handed over the maintenance of CCTV cameras in New Delhi to Bharat Electronic Limited (BEL), a senior official said. A control command centre has been established at the headquarters to oversee the functioning of the cameras. This move is crucial for the upkeep of the surveillance system, which includes approximately 2.4 lakh cameras set up under Delhi govt’s initiative.
Launched in 2018 by chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, the CCTV camera scheme aims to enhance safety in the city. Their installation was a significant step towards deterring crime and providing a sense of safety to residents.
However, there have been multiple reports of damage to and theft of these cameras, officials said. These reports highlighted the need for regular maintenance and prompt repair of the devices to ensure that surveillance does not suffer.
BEL is a public sector unit under the ministry of defence that manufactures electronic products and systems for the forces. In 2021, Kejriwal said Delhi ranked highest across the world in CCTVs per square mile. The govt CCTV scheme was hailed as significant in terms of women’s safety.
The Government has claimed that all CCTV feeds are secure, with hardware monitored by the community, feeds accessible authorised users and the system capable of automatic health checks.
