Western Railway (WR) is increasing its efforts to install CCTV cameras across its suburban train fleet. The move comes after a rise in crimes against women and vulnerable passengers. Currently, one-third of women’s coaches and 8% of general coaches have cameras.
This means, out of 1,415 coaches, only 226 have cameras. This includes 147 ladies’ coaches and 79 general coaches. There are still 305 ladies’ coaches and 884 general coaches that need cameras. Passenger associations have raised concerns, saying these delays put commuters at risk.
WR plans to install CCTV and talk-back systems in every ladies’ coach by the end of the year. General coaches will follow after that. The new IP-based cameras will provide better image quality, longer storage, and faster access to footage during incidents.
The cost of installing CCTV is high. Each system costs about INR 3.5 lakh. Each motorman’s cabin will also get a Crew Voice and Video Recording System (CVVRS) for INR 1.25 lakh. Currently, only 51 out of 231 driver cabins have CVVRS.
Alongside security upgrades, WR will launch its first senior citizen coach by Diwali.
Central Railway (CR) has already implemented a similar coach. As per reports, General Manager Vijay Kumar recently studied CR’s prototype, which started in July.
The CR coach was converted from a middle luggage compartment. It now has seven seats for senior commuters. It also includes better seating, grab grips, anti-skid flooring, and stainless steel tube dividers for improved ventilation.
The project comes after a Bombay High Court order from last year. The court addressed a public interest lawsuit calling for safer commuting options for senior citizens.