New Delhi: The Delhi Cabinet has approved to install three CCTV cameras, 10 panic buttons and an automatic vehicle location system in each of the existing 5,500 DTC and cluster buses, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced on Thursday.
Addressing the media, Kejriwal said the project is estimated to cost around Rs 150 crore and is expected to be completed within seven months.
“Initially, 100 buses will get the cameras, GPS and panic buttons. These 100 buses will have the systems ready by the month end,” said Kejriwal.
He said the decision was taken to enhance women’s security and also for people to see the location and timing of the buses.
“A mobile application will be launched so that people can see accurate bus location and timing. The application is almost developed,” the Chief Minister said.
Kejriwal further said that bus stops will also have a passenger information system so that people can see when the next bus is scheduled.
“A command centre will be set up for all buses,” he said.
On being asked if the government is using the Nirbhaya funds for the purpose, he said the Centre has refused to give money under the funds to install CCTV cameras in buses.
Nirbhaya Fund was announced by the Centre in 2013 to support the initiatives by the governments and NGOs working towards protecting the dignity and ensuring the safety of women in India.
Speaking on the increasing crime against women, Kejriwal said that it is sad that so many incidents are taking place against women.
“The governments and agencies should work with clean intention on women’s security. It is not that we cannot provide security to our women. We should rise above politics. The society should put pressure on the government for stricter rules,” Kejriwal said.
