Bhubaneswar, June 30: The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has successfully installed more than 500 solar-powered CCTV cameras at vulnerable locations across its jurisdiction, strengthening surveillance and ensuring the safety and security of train operations, railway assets and passengers, said an official release on Tuesday.
According to an ECoR release, the cameras have been strategically installed at vulnerable and sensitive locations, including station premises, level crossings, marshalling yards, bridges, isolated track stretches and other critical sections across the zone.
Powered entirely by solar energy, these advanced surveillance systems provide uninterrupted round-the-clock monitoring, including in remote and difficult-to-access locations where conventional power supply may be limited or unavailable.
"The extensive deployment of solar powered CCTV cameras has significantly enhanced monitoring capabilities across railway infrastructure and train operations. The real time surveillance system assists railway officials and security agencies in preventing and detecting incidents such as trespassing, cable theft, vandalism, stone pelting and other unlawful activities. The availability of recorded footage also facilitates prompt investigation, quicker response and effective enforcement, thereby contributing to improved safety and operational efficiency," it said.
The initiative forms part of ECoR's sustained efforts to adopt modern, sustainable and environmentally responsible technologies for railway operations. By harnessing renewable solar energy, the CCTV network operates with minimal maintenance requirements and virtually no recurring electricity costs, making the system both cost effective and eco friendly, it added.
"Building upon this achievement, ECoR has set an ambitious target of installing more than 2,000 solar powered CCTV cameras by October 2026. With the current pace of implementation, ECoR is poised to become the first zone in Indian Railways to achieve this landmark, setting a new benchmark in technology enabled railway safety and security." the ECoR said.
The initiative aligns with the vision of the Government of India for a safe, smart and sustainable railway network under the broader objectives of Viksit Bharat 2047.
