Rs2cr DPDC funds to boostCCTV vigil in key city areas

Nagpur: The city is stepping up security in and around two of its most sensitive localities — Mahal and Reshimbagh — with a Rs2 crore DPDC grant approved by the Maharashtra govt to expand CCTV camera coverage in public areas outside major institutions. The focus is on common public zones surrounding the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Mahal and Smruti Mandir in Reshimbagh, where around 100 new cameras are expected to be installed to plug surveillance gaps and aid policing.
Additional municipal commissioner Vasumana Pant told TOI the initiative is being carried out by the Nagpur Smart and Sustainable City Development Corporation Limited (NSSCDCL) in coordination with Nagpur city police. "A joint inspection was conducted to identify vulnerable public spots — such as busy intersections, footpaths, and entry and exit points — that need greater monitoring," she said.Administrative approval for the project was obtained before Nagpur Municipal Corporation went to polls in Dec last year, and the tender for execution is now floated. Officials said the enhanced grid will be linked with existing police control rooms, offering real-time feeds and supporting rapid response.Security was a priority for the city recently amid national-level alerts. Intelligence agencies warned of possible terror threats linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), with sensitive sites including the RSS headquarters and Reshimbagh coming under heightened watch as part of citywide security measures following counter-terror operations.Residents and traders in both localities welcomed the plan, saying improved CCTV coverage in public areas could deter petty crime, vandalism, and traffic violations. "Enhanced camera vigil will reassure the public and help police act faster," said officials privy to the development. However, some emphasised that effectiveness will depend on maintenance and 24×7 monitoring, not just new installations.Police sources noted that while larger security frameworks — including naka checks and patrols — continue to operate, a robust, modern surveillance network is crucial for preventive policing and forensic support. The expanded system is also expected to support law enforcement in investigations and crowd management during events and festivals.Civic activists stressed that privacy safeguards and clear protocols for data retention and access must accompany the rollout to avoid misuse. They also pointed to past concerns over non-functional CCTV units and gaps in coverage across Nagpur, underlining the need for sustained upkeep rather than periodic upgrades.