Offline Vigil: Delhi Faces Challenges in CCTV Network

Over 7,500 CCTV cameras in Delhi were offline according to a Public Works Department audit. Launched in 2020 to enhance safety, the network faces issues like power cuts, technical faults, and theft. The Delhi government seeks to install 50,000 more cameras and improve maintenance through future tenders.

A recent safety audit by the Public Works Department (PWD) has revealed that more than 7,500 CCTV cameras across Delhi were offline. The audit highlights challenges faced by the city's surveillance network launched in 2020 to bolster safety.

Presently, around 2.8 lakh cameras have been installed throughout the city, in collaboration with resident welfare and market associations. However, the network has encountered several hurdles, such as power cuts, technical faults, theft, and vandalism, as per a report submitted by the government in the Delhi Assembly.

Despite these issues, the Delhi government intends to enhance security by installing an additional 50,000 CCTV cameras, alongside prioritizing maintenance. Reports reveal that maintenance has been outsourced to Bharat Electronic Limited (BEL), and future strategies involve issuing consolidated tenders for improved upkeep.

(With inputs from agencies.)