In a major move to improve passenger security, the South Western Railway (SWR), in collaboration with RailTel Corporation of India Limited, has installed 943 AI-enabled CCTV cameras across 79 railway stations. These cameras are integrated with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Command and Control Centre (CC Centre) in Hubballi, enabling real-time surveillance and quicker response to safety concerns.
SWR officials stated that more than half of the installed cameras are already operational and linked to the Hubballi CC Centre, with the remaining connections expected soon. This setup allows RPF personnel in Hubballi to monitor activity at even the smallest stations remotely and issue alerts in case of suspicious behavior or emergencies.
Until recently, only seven key stations in the Hubballi Division—such as Hubballi, Dharwad, Belagavi, and Hosapete—were under CCTV surveillance. The recent technological upgrade has extended coverage to 79 out of the 123 stations in the division, including minor stations like Saunshi and Yalavigi.
The AI-powered cameras go beyond basic monitoring. They can recognize faces, track crowd movements, and count passengers, contributing to enhanced station management and security.
RPF Senior Divisional Security Commissioner Alok Kumar emphasized the benefits of this integrated digital system, noting its effectiveness in keeping constant vigil and improving response times across the railway network.
This modernization complements broader station upgrades, including new infrastructure and enhanced passenger amenities, making safety a top priority for SWR.