North Western Railway Enhances Security with 447 CCTV Cameras Across Eight Stations
In a significant move to bolster passenger safety and surveillance, the Jodhpur Division of North Western Railway has completed the installation of 447 CCTV cameras across eight major railway stations. This initiative aims to create a more secure travel environment and improve operational efficiency.
Jaisalmer Station Leads with 219 Cameras Under Amrit Station Scheme
The flagship installation is at Jaisalmer Railway Station, which has been equipped with 219 CCTV cameras as part of its redevelopment under the Amrit Station Scheme. This redevelopment project involved an investment of approximately Rs 140 crore, focusing on modernizing infrastructure and enhancing security measures.
According to Divisional Railway Manager Anurag Tripathi, the comprehensive surveillance system is designed to provide a safe and secure travel environment for passengers. He emphasized that the cameras will help curb criminal and anti-social activities while improving station management efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
Surveillance Coverage Across Key Locations
The CCTV network covers a wide range of critical areas within the stations to ensure thorough monitoring. Surveillance includes:
- Station platforms and entry-exit gates
- Waiting rooms and ticket counters
- Foot overbridges and other key locations
This extensive coverage ensures that all passenger movement and activities are monitored, contributing to a safer railway ecosystem.
Distribution of Cameras Across Seven Additional Stations
Beyond Jaisalmer, the remaining 228 cameras have been strategically deployed at seven other major stations within the division. The station-wise breakdown is as follows:
- Jodhpur Station: 59 cameras
- Pali Marwar Station: 36 cameras
- Raika Bagh Palace Station: 31 cameras
- Nagaur Station: 24 cameras
- Barmer Station: 29 cameras
- Bhagat Ki Kothi Station: 32 cameras
- Munabao Station: 17 cameras
This distribution ensures that surveillance is evenly spread across high-traffic and strategic locations, maximizing security benefits.
Objectives and Expected Outcomes
The installation of these 447 CCTV cameras is part of a broader effort to modernize railway security infrastructure. Key objectives include:
- Enhanced Passenger Safety: Providing a secure environment for travelers by deterring criminal activities.
- Improved Surveillance: Monitoring station activities in real-time to respond swiftly to incidents.
- Operational Efficiency: Streamlining station management through better oversight and accountability.
Officials believe that this initiative will not only boost passenger confidence but also set a benchmark for security measures in railway divisions across the country.
