Delhi's extensive network of CCTV cameras has become a crucial weapon in the city's fight against crime, with official data revealing that the surveillance system has assisted police investigations in more than 10,000 cases since 2020.
Massive Surveillance Network Proves Crucial
According to government documents accessed by The Indian Express, the Public Works Department's CCTV grid comprising 2.80 lakh cameras across the national capital has provided critical evidence in numerous criminal investigations. The PWD has shared footage from more than 12,000 CCTVs with the Delhi Police to date, serving as electronic evidence in court proceedings.
Additionally, the PWD and Bharat Electronics Limited - the company responsible for installation and maintenance of these cameras - have responded to over 10,000 court summons related to the footage. The surveillance infrastructure was initially established under the previous AAP government, which installed 1.40 lakh cameras in each of two phases, focusing particularly on enhancing women's safety and covering residential areas and markets.
Beyond Crime: Multiple Benefits of CCTV Coverage
A senior PWD official highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the surveillance system, stating that "CCTV footage has been shared with the Delhi Police on request as electronic evidence in the court of law." The official added that "the presence of CCTV cameras also acts as a deterrent to criminal activity such as theft, vandalism or anti-social behaviour."
Beyond criminal investigations, officials confirmed that the surveillance network has proven instrumental in detecting various emergencies including fires, accidents, and medical crises, enabling swift response from authorities and security personnel. This comprehensive monitoring capability has transformed how the city manages public safety and emergency response.
Major Overhaul and Expansion Planned
The current BJP government is planning a significant upgrade to Delhi's surveillance capabilities under the 'Delhi CCTV Surveillance Project'. The key objectives include supporting police in maintaining law and order, aiding criminal investigations, and enhancing citizen security.
The ambitious plan includes:
- Installation of 50,000 additional cameras covering all 70 constituencies
- Development of new software platform called Delhi CCTV Monitoring System
- Expansion of Command and Control Centre to each police station
- Creation of online portal for tracking complaints
In a significant policy shift, the government has restricted local access to CCTV feeds for homeowners, Resident Welfare Associations, and market associations - a feature previously available. Now, only the area district magistrate, Deputy Commissioner of Police, local police, and PWD officials have access to both live and recorded footage.
The government has also proposed extending the Comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract for Phase I cameras to the current company for a three-year period at a cost of Rs 201 crore, with the proposal currently under consideration.
