In a major step towards improving train travel safety, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the Indian Railways has installed CCTV cameras in more than 11,000 coaches as part of a nationwide push for enhanced surveillance and passenger protection.
This marks one of the largest tech deployments in railway history, with a sharp focus on women’s security, theft prevention, and real-time monitoring.
Why the CCTV Push?
Here’s what prompted this move:
Rising concerns over thefts, harassment, and unreported crimes
Growing demand for women’s safety in public transport
Need for smart surveillance during night journeys
Pressure to modernize Indian Railways under the Digital India vision
Key Features of the New CCTV Setup
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 📹 Number of Coaches | 11,000+ equipped with HD CCTV |
| 🔁 Coverage | Entry/exit doors, aisles, common areas, ladies’ compartments |
| 🧠 Smart Integration | Real-time monitoring at control rooms |
| 🧷 Data Storage | Footage stored up to 30 days |
| 🔐 Access | Only authorized personnel can retrieve and review footage |
Focus on Women’s Safety
Dedicated women’s coaches have been prioritized for early installation
Cameras placed in non-intrusive locations to ensure privacy while maintaining vigilance
Integration with Railway Protection Force (RPF) alert systems to respond faster to incidents
Minister’s Statement
“Passenger safety is a top priority. With cameras now installed in over 11,000 coaches, we are building a system of trust, transparency, and accountability.”
— Ashwini Vaishnaw, Railway Minister
What’s Next?
Goal to extend CCTV installation to 20,000+ coaches by 2026
Integration with AI-based facial recognition and emergency alert systems
Station-level video integration for complete trip monitoring from entry to exit
FAQs
Q1: Are these cameras monitored live?
Yes. Many coaches are now connected to centralized command centers for real-time monitoring, especially on premium and intercity trains.
Q2: Will this affect privacy?
No. Cameras are placed in public areas only—not inside washrooms or private berths. All data access is regulated.
Q3: What happens if an incident occurs?
Footage can be retrieved and used as legal evidence. The RPF will act on complaints using visual data.
Q4: Will local trains and metros get similar upgrades?
Some suburban routes and EMUs are already included, with metro projects following suit under state coordination.
Q5: Is there a panic button or alert system linked to these cameras?
Yes, new coaches are being fitted with panic buttons that alert RPF and initiate recording markers in real-time.
Published on : 6th August
Published by : SMITA
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
🛡 Powered by Vizzve Financial
RBI-Registered Loan Partner | 10 Lakh+ Customers | ₹600 Cr+ Disbursed