Following the positive results of the experimental installation of CCTV cameras in passenger coaches, the Indian Railways has officially decided to implement CCTV surveillance across all 74,000 coaches and 15,000 locomotives. This strategic move is aimed at significantly enhancing passenger safety and security, especially against miscreants and organized gangs that often exploit unsuspecting travelers.
To ensure privacy protection, cameras will not be installed in private spaces such as compartments or toilets. Instead, they will be placed in common movement areas near the coach doors, ensuring a balance between surveillance and privacy.
A high-level review meeting was held on Saturday, 12th July 2025, attended by Union Minister for Railways Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of State for Railways Shri Ravneet Singh Bittu, and senior officials of the Railway Board. During the meeting, officials confirmed that successful trials had already been conducted in locomotives and coaches of the Northern Railway.
360-Degree Surveillance for Enhanced Safety
As per the approved plan:
- Each coach will have four dome-type CCTV cameras, with two cameras in each entrance area.
- Each locomotive will be fitted with six CCTV cameras, including one at the front, rear, and both sides, along with one dome camera and two desk-mounted microphones in both the front and rear cabs.
This setup will provide 360-degree coverage, ensuring that every movement in public spaces is monitored for suspicious or criminal activity.
Modern Technology for Modern Challenges
Railway officials have emphasized that the surveillance equipment will be STQC certified and will meet the latest specifications. Union Railway Minister Vaishnaw directed that the cameras should deliver high-quality footage even in low-light conditions and on trains running at speeds exceeding 100 kmph.
Furthermore, the minister encouraged exploration into the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in analyzing CCTV data under the IndiaAI Mission, to proactively identify threats and streamline security measures.
A Step Towards Safer Journeys
The move to expand CCTV surveillance reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to creating a safe, secure, and passenger-friendly environment. By combining modern technology with passenger privacy, the initiative marks a major leap in ensuring public safety on one of the world’s largest rail networks, for more details CLICK HERE
