How is Coimbatore Enhancing Passenger Safety with CCTV?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- CCTV installation in all city buses.
- Focus on enhancing safety for women and students.
- Private buses have largely complied; TNSTC buses still pending.
- Proposal submitted for substantial funding under the Nirbhaya Fund.
- Surveillance cameras will cover all critical areas in buses.
Chennai, Oct 11 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bolstering passenger safety, especially for women and students, the Coimbatore City Police has partnered with the local Corporation to implement a plan for the installation of CCTV cameras in every bus operating throughout the city.
While the majority of private buses have already adhered to this requirement, the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) buses are still pending the upgrade.
As reported by the city police, Coimbatore hosts 153 private town buses and 117 private mofussil buses. Almost all have been equipped with surveillance cameras that monitor both passengers and the driver.
This initiative aims to elevate safety standards, deter harassment, and assist authorities in more effectively investigating incidents.
Officials have confirmed that compliance checks were conducted to ensure all private bus operators followed the directive.
The integration of CCTV systems has been shown to benefit not just passengers but also police and bus operators.
In numerous instances, the recorded footage has provided essential evidence for resolving disputes and determining the causes of accidents, thus preventing unjust penalties and fostering accountability.
To extend similar safety measures to government bus passengers, city police have submitted a proposal requesting Rs 78.6 crore from the ‘Nirbhaya Fund’.
This project aims to establish CCTV surveillance in all TNSTC buses operating within Coimbatore, ensuring coverage of the footboard, passenger area, and driver’s cabin.
The proposal also specifies cameras with a storage capacity of up to 60 days. Advocates for passenger safety have emphasized the pressing need for such surveillance, particularly during peak hours when women and students face heightened risks of harassment.
Buses equipped with CCTV have contributed to a sense of security and deterred potential offenders, leading to an improved overall commuting experience.
This initiative represents a significant advancement toward creating a safer and more secure public transportation system in Coimbatore.
Once implemented across all TNSTC buses, it will ensure that every passenger—regardless of gender or age—can travel with confidence and peace of mind.