How Noida plans to make streets safe with tech help; 2.5k cams, facial recognition, 24/7 monitoring part of plan

Noida: Noida Authority has planned to install 2,634 smart cameras across 561 strategic locations in the city, creating a comprehensive security network powered by artificial intelligence and real-time monitoring.
The Safe City project — estimated to cost Rs 212 crore — will involve a surveillance infrastructure comprising 1,543 fixed cameras, 406 pan-tilt-zoom cameras for dynamic tracking, and 100 high-definition automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras.
A facial recognition system will be integrated with various govt databases, which will include passport details, criminal tracking and prison records.
This will enable swift identification of people with criminal backgrounds. In criminal cases, for instance, authorities can verify the identity of an accused by using the facial recognition system.
"The authorities will build a custom repository of images gathered from police raids, newspaper reports, public submissions, or sketch artists. These images can be tagged with specific attributes, such as gender or an estimated age. So, in criminal cases, for instance, police can match clips recorded by these cameras with the archives and proceed with their investigation," an official said.
At the centre of the surveillance system will be the integrated command and control centre (ICCC) in Sector 94, where operators and cops will monitor live feed from the cameras 24/7.
The centre will be equipped with video walls, GIS-based dashboards, and real-time alert systems, and connected with 13 police stations across the city for rapid response.
Apart from cameras, the project will involve the installation of 147 emergency panic button call boxes at specific locations and busy intersections. Pressing a button will alert the nearest police station, while nearby cameras will track the individual or event in real time.
These will be complemented by 418 IP-based public address systems and 20 variable message signboards for emergency communication and public announcements. This technological infrastructure will be backed by a 250km optical fibre network, ensuring seamless connectivity between all the components. The system will incorporate advanced cybersecurity measures, complying with international standards such as ISO 27001.
A crucial aspect of the project will be public participation, where people can interact with the Safe City platform through various alert systems and reporting features. Emergency notifications will be sent through text messages, while the public address systems will assist not only during emergencies but also for awareness campaigns and safety guidelines.
The variable message boards will further strengthen communication between civic authorities and residents.
The company assigned the project will have to manage the system for the next five years. It will include regular software updates, maintenance of hardware, and round-the-clock technical support. There will be possibilities for future expansion as well.
The project will be implemented in phases, starting with high-risk areas such as intersections, markets, educational institutions, and densely populated residential zones. The project, conceived under the Nirbhaya Fund Projects, specifically aims at enhancing women's safety, officials said.
The Authority has initiated the tender process, with a key meeting scheduled for April 22 and the opening of bids on May 16.
"Once operational, this comprehensive security system will set standards for urban safety and security management," an official said.