BMTC updates CCTV cameras inside buses for women’s safety

BENGALURU: After the implementation of the government’s ‘Shakti Yojana’, free bus travel for women across the state, the number of women travelling in buses has more than doubled. Considering the safety of women, the BMTC now plans to set up updated CCTV cameras inside its buses.

The updated CCTV cameras have been installed in six new BMTC EV buses. Each of these buses have four cameras installed in the front, middle and rear for the safety of passengers. The earlier diesel-powered BS II and BS III buses had two cameras in each vehicle.

A special feature of the updated cameras is that they can record audio along with capturing videos. If, in any case, passengers engage in indecent conversation with co-passengers or with BMTC staff, the authorities will take action against them.

The cameras will not only keep an eye on passengers, but bus drivers will also be under CCTV surveillance. If the driver exceeds the speed limit, reckless driving will also be recorded in the data centre.

A comprehensive control unit has been set up at the BMTC office in Shantinagar, and a team of seven people, including a deputy traffic controller, monitor the happenings in all buses.