Puttur: In response to a recent rise in burglaries and serial theft incidents within the Uppinangady police station limits, the Dakshina Kannada district police have initiated the installation of CCTV surveillance systems at strategic locations in the town. The move aims to strengthen security measures, prevent criminal activities and improve traffic monitoring in areas witnessing increasing public movement and law enforcement concerns.
High-tech cameras installed at key points
As part of the first phase of the initiative, a total of six advanced CCTV cameras have been installed at two important locations in and around Uppinangady. Four cameras have been set up at the bus stand circle in the centre of the town, while two cameras have been installed at Gundya junction near the Dakshina Kannada district border in Shiradi village.
Police officials stated that the selected locations were identified considering their importance in terms of traffic movement and security monitoring. The newly installed surveillance network is expected to assist authorities in detecting suspicious activities and keeping track of movements across major routes.
The installation is also expected to serve as a deterrent against thefts, burglaries and other unlawful activities occurring in the region.
Recent theft incidents prompted action
The decision to install the surveillance network comes after a series of theft-related incidents reported within the jurisdiction of Uppinangady police station in recent days.
Among the incidents that raised concern was a burglary at the residence of a police head constable in Padmunja. The situation further escalated when break-ins were reported at four different locations in Uppinangady town during the same night.
The incidents triggered concern among residents and traders, with many demanding stronger monitoring systems and preventive action to ensure public safety.
Police authorities believe the new surveillance mechanism will help in quickly identifying suspects and gathering evidence in the event of criminal activity.
Cameras to assist traffic management and law enforcement
Apart from crime prevention, the newly installed CCTV cameras are also expected to assist in managing traffic congestion and related issues in the town.
Traffic movement in Uppinangady has reportedly remained challenging over the past 15 days, leading to congestion at important junctions and busy areas. Officials said the surveillance network would help monitor traffic conditions and support enforcement measures.
According to Sub-Inspector Sutesh, the newly installed cameras are equipped with advanced technology capable of capturing clear images of people and vehicle registration numbers.
He said the camera feeds would be monitored directly by the local police station and the district police control room. Authorities believe this will significantly improve the ability to track traffic rule violations and support investigations into criminal activities.
District-wide implementation plan under consideration
Police officials have indicated that the project is expected to expand beyond Uppinangady and become part of a broader district-level initiative.
An action plan is reportedly being prepared to install similar CCTV networks across taluk centres and densely populated towns in Dakshina Kannada district.
Authorities expect such surveillance systems to strengthen policing and improve response capabilities across various locations.
Earlier public-funded initiative had become defunct
The town had previously witnessed a similar initiative nearly a decade ago during another period of frequent theft incidents.
At that time, local traders and businessmen, led by entrepreneur Karunakar Suvarna, had collectively raised funds to install 10 CCTV cameras at different locations including the main circle, bypass road, temple premises, old bus stand and Gandhi Park.
The surveillance system reportedly functioned effectively for around six years and contributed to reducing crime rates. However, due to lack of maintenance, the equipment eventually became non-functional.
The police department had faced criticism in the past over the inability to maintain equipment installed through public support. With the department now taking direct responsibility for implementing the new project, residents are expressing hope that the system will receive proper maintenance and deliver long-term results.
The installation of the CCTV network is expected to improve monitoring capabilities and enhance public confidence in local policing efforts while contributing to safer conditions in Uppinangady and surrounding areas.