Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to enhance surveillance capabilities for people’s safety in Bhubaneswar, the authorities are set to install 1,500 additional AI-enabled CCTV cameras at strategic locations in the capital city.
Spearheaded by Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (BSCL), the initiative aims to enhance the safety and security of women, elderly and children, BSCL officials said.
The expansion will increase the city’s CCTV network to a total of 3,300 cameras, supplementing the 1,800 already in operation. Locations for the installation of the new cameras are now being finalised.
According to BSCL managing director N Thirumala Naik, a tender has already been issued for the installation and maintenance of the cameras, which will be managed by the selected agency for a period of seven years.
The new cameras, to be equipped with advanced AI capabilities, will be integrated with an intelligent command and control centre, where trained operators will monitor the surveillance feeds. The move is part of BSCL’s broader strategy to implement smart city projects in Bhubaneswar.
The new cameras will not only enhance public safety but also assist city authorities in monitoring and enforcing traffic regulations. They are designed to detect various traffic violations, including riding without helmets, driving on the wrong side, and ignoring red light.
The cameras will have the capability to identify number plates, detect speed violations and recognise instances of triple riding and wrong-side driving. This will significantly aid traffic police personnel in enforcing compliance and improving road safety.
This apart, the cameras will contribute to decongestion efforts and feature facial recognition technology. While the new cameras will have advanced features, steps are being taken to upgrade the existing cameras, officials said.