The Indian Express   03.08.2012

Civic body to get non-functional CCTV cameras working again

CCTVs installed as part of the intelligent traffic system and that were non-functional are set to be back in service with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) deciding to pay dues to the contractor providing connectivity of the cameras with the control room. The PMC has also decided to spend Rs 1 crore for installation of CCTV cameras to enhance security across the city.

“The PMC has installed 39 CCTV cameras in various parts of the city from MLA-LAD funds. The civic administration would install 90 more CCTVs,” said municipal commissioner Mahesh Pathak.Pathak on Thursday held a meeting with Mayor Vaishali Bankar and leader of house Subhash Jagtap on security and safety in the city.

Bankar said the civic administration has been asked to spend Rs 1 crore for the installation of CCTVs at important locations in the city.“There was a decision to tighten security at all civic offices. I have suggested that the administration restrict entry of private vehicles into the campus of the civic headquarters,” said the mayor.

Additional municipal commissioner Naresh Zurmure admitted that the CCTV at Balgandharva junction the site of one of the blasts on Wednesday, was not operational. “We have asked the contractor to resume connectivity as the PMC would pay for it,” he said.

“We have focussed on increasing security at various pumping stations and water purification units,” he added.Zurmure said security at civic offices has been increased to avoid any untoward incident. When reminded that the civic administration had proposed restricting entry of citizens into the civic office, Bankar said it was not possible as it would be difficult for citizens to adhere to fixed visiting hours. The administration had wanted visitors only in the afternoon to make it easier for security personnel.