New Delhi buses equipped with surveillance cameras

With an aim to keep vigil on every passenger, Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has decided to install surveillance cameras in 200 buses, including AC and non-AC floor buses, in the first phase.

"We have decided to install surveillance cameras in 200 buses, including AC and non-AC floor buses, in the first phase. Installing cameras in DTC's buses will be carried out in a phased wise. In the second phase, many buses will come under this project," said a senior official of DTC said.

"Two surveillance cameras will be installed in every bus and two companies have so far shown their interest in our project. Each camera solution will have a capacity of recording for 15 days," the official said.

"For monitoring the footages of cameras, a control room will also be made. For instance, if a passenger's behavior is suspected traveling in a DTC bus, control room will immediately forward a message to the nearest police station. Besides, molestation cases can closely be monitored by this project," the official said.

DTC sources said that corporation is considering to bring 200 buses of two depots under surveillance camera project, adding that awarded company will have to look after design, develop, build, install, maintain surveillance cameras in buses.

The official said that such step will prove very useful for the women passengers, who travel in corporation buses, especially at late night.

In the aftermath of the December 16 gang-rape cases, DTC had also started providing two home guards on the late night services.