Defunct CCTV Cameras in Panchkula Lead to Sharp Drop in Traffic Challans

Panchkula's Defunct CCTV Cameras Result in Sharp Decline in Traffic Challans

In Panchkula, a significant number of non-functional CCTV cameras have led to a dramatic fall in traffic challans, effectively allowing rule violators to operate with impunity on many city roads, according to police officials. This issue not only impacts traffic enforcement but also poses a serious threat to the city's overall security and surveillance capabilities.

Alarming Drop in CCTV-Based Challans

Official police data for the first three months of the year reveal a steep decline in challans issued through CCTV surveillance compared to the same period in previous years. Between January 1 and March 31, 2026, only 7,819 CCTV challans were issued for traffic violations. This marks a substantial decrease from 24,560 challans during the same period in 2025 and 16,981 challans in 2024.

Police attribute this sharp dip directly to the large number of defunct cameras. The absence of working cameras complicates efforts to track suspects fleeing after crimes or identify vehicles involved in criminal activities, giving criminals a significant advantage.

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Security and Surveillance Challenges

A police official emphasized that in cases of petty crimes such as chain snatching or vehicle theft, CCTV cameras often prove crucial. With many cameras not operational, both traffic violators and offenders benefit from the weakened surveillance system. The traffic police had earlier written to the Panchkula Municipal Corporation (MC) seeking immediate repairs, but the problem persists.

Reports indicate that 200 of the 473 CCTV cameras installed by the MC across the city were non-functional as of last month. The issue appears linked to delays in operation and maintenance, which had been outsourced to a private contractor. MC commissioner Vinay Kumar had previously directed officials to ensure all cameras were made functional through the existing contractor, whose contract has since ended.

Public Outcry and Accountability Issues

S K Nayar, president of the Citizens Welfare Association in Panchkula, called the situation alarming, noting that the data clearly reflects the consequences of a weakened surveillance system. He stated, "For the past three to four years, we have repeatedly heard about defunct CCTV cameras. When the MC spends around Rs 1 crore annually on their operation and maintenance, the lack of accountability is shocking."

Meanwhile, a senior MC official claimed that repair work is underway, with several cameras already made operational and efforts continuing to restore the remaining ones.