Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Sunday inaugurated the work to instal 2,000 CCTV cameras in his Assembly constituency of Patparganj as part of the Delhi government’s project to instal 1.4 lakh cameras.

Mr. Sisodia said that the placement of the cameras, was decided after MLAs and Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in the constituency conducted surveys to determine the spots that need surveillance.

“Women security and law and order may not be under the Delhi government, but we are doing everything within our power to enhance security of women in the city. In the next 2-3 months, all 1.4 lakh cameras sanctioned will be installed. The tendering for another 1.5 lakh cameras has begun. This is in addition to cameras being installed in government schools for the security of children,” Mr. Sisodia said while addressing residents of the area. He added that nobody breaking the law will be able to escape the eyes of the cameras.

Wireless system

The Deputy CM said that CCTV projects had failed to serve their purpose in the past as cables were often cut. He said that the cameras that the Delhi government will be installing are tamper proof with wireless system that runs fully on WiFi.

“Live feeds and footage up to 20-days-old will be provided to the RWA members, the local Station House Officer and also to a central control room at the PWD headquarters. RWA members can track the feeds on their mobile phones without any hassle even for issues like damage to resident’s vehicles, etc.,” Mr. Sisodia said.

He added that the CCTVs would be installed in unauthorised colonies as well.

Reasons for delay

Mr. Sisodia said the project was delayed as the Lieutenant-Governor refused to approve the proposal. “The entire Cabinet, right from Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Satyendar Jain, Gopal Rai and myself sat on a dharna at his [L-G’s] home for 10 days and a hunger strike for seven days. That is the only reason why this project has become a reality. It has taken a lot of effort and penance,” Mr. Sisodia said.

He alleged that the L-G was opposed to involving RWAs in determining the locations of CCTVs and wanted the Sub-Divisional Magistrate to take the call.