Nationwide Plan to Equip 74,000 Coaches with CCTV Cameras
The Indian government is implementing a comprehensive plan to bolster passenger safety across Indian Railways. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed Parliament today that CCTV cameras will be installed in approximately 74,000 railway coaches and 15,000 locomotives nationwide. In a written response to a question in the Lok Sabha, the minister provided detailed insights into the initiative.
11,535 Coaches Already Equipped with CCTV Cameras
As part of this ambitious project, 11,535 railway coaches across various railway zones have already been fitted with CCTV cameras, the minister revealed. Moving forward, each coach will have four cameras installed—two at each entry point—while every locomotive will be equipped with six cameras. These will include one camera at the front, one at the rear, one on each side, and one in each of the two cabins. Additionally, two desk-mounted microphones will be installed in locomotives to enhance monitoring capabilities.
High-Quality Cameras Ensure Passenger Privacy
Minister Vaishnaw assured that all CCTV cameras meet high-quality standards, certified by STQC (Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification) and compliant with RDSO (Research Designs and Standards Organisation) guidelines. These cameras are designed to deliver clear footage even on trains traveling at speeds up to 100 kilometers per hour. To safeguard passenger privacy, cameras will only be installed in common areas near coach doors, ensuring no intrusion into personal spaces, the minister emphasized.
Combating Anti-Social Activities and Enhancing Investigations
The primary objective of this initiative is to curb anti-social activities, vandalism, and theft on trains, Vaishnaw stated. The CCTV footage will also prove invaluable in crime investigations. The minister highlighted ongoing efforts to upgrade technology, with plans to explore real-time monitoring and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based systems in the future to further enhance railway safety.
Expansion of Non-AC Coaches for Affordable Travel
In response to another question, Minister Vaishnaw announced that Indian Railways will add 17,000 non-AC (general and sleeper) coaches over the next five years to cater to the needs of low and middle-income passengers. He noted that in the financial year 2024-25 alone, 1,250 additional general coaches were introduced for long-distance trains, improving accessibility for passengers.
FAQs
1. Why is Indian Railways installing CCTV cameras in train coaches?
The initiative aims to enhance passenger safety by curbing anti-social activities, vandalism, and theft, while also aiding crime investigations with CCTV footage.
2. How many coaches will have CCTV cameras under this plan?
Indian Railways plans to install CCTV cameras in 74,000 coaches and 15,000 locomotives nationwide.
3. Will passenger privacy be affected by the CCTV cameras?
No, cameras are installed only in common areas near coach entry points to ensure passenger privacy is maintained.
4. What quality standards do the CCTV cameras meet?
The cameras are STQC-certified and comply with RDSO guidelines, ensuring clear footage even at high train speeds.
5. What additional measures are planned for railway safety?
Indian Railways is exploring real-time monitoring and AI-based systems to further enhance security.
6. How is Indian Railways addressing the needs of low-income passengers?
Over the next five years, 17,000 non-AC (general and sleeper) coaches will be added to cater to low and middle-income passengers.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is based on statements made by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Lok Sabha. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to verify details with official sources for the latest updates on Indian Railways’ initiatives.
For more details on Indian Railways’ safety and modernization efforts, visit the official website: Indian Railways.