PMC Takes Major Step to Ensure Safety: CCTV Cameras to Be Installed in 80 All-Girls Schools with ₹3.80 Crore Allocation

In a significant move to enhance the safety and security of students, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced plans to install CCTV cameras in its all-girls schools. As part of the first phase of this initiative, 80 schools will be equipped with surveillance systems, backed by an approved budget of ₹3.80 crore. This effort is part of a broader goal to bolster security measures across all 350 PMC-run schools.

Security First: An Urgent Need Addressed

PMC operates a diverse network of schools, including co-educational, all-girls, and all-boys institutions. Despite deploying security guards in 250 schools, parents and citizens have frequently raised concerns over the inadequacy of these measures. Complaints have highlighted the presence of anti-social elements and instances of nuisance on school premises, prompting authorities to act decisively.

A joint survey by the Electrical and Education Departments of PMC assessed the infrastructure requirements of schools, focusing on key aspects such as the number of classrooms and entry points. The survey estimated that implementing CCTV surveillance across all 350 schools would cost ₹17 crore. However, due to financial constraints, PMC has opted for a phased approach, with the initial allocation prioritizing the 80 all-girls schools.

Future Plans: Expanding Coverage

The ₹3.80 crore funding for this phase will enable the installation of cameras in schools located within city limits as well as in the recently added 32 villages. According to Manisha Shektakar, Head of the Electrical Department, the installation process is expected to be completed by March next year. "Our primary focus is on PMC's all-girls schools. Cameras have already been installed in 60 co-educational schools, and we plan to cover the remaining schools in the 2024-25 municipal budget," Shektakar said.

Enhancing Safety Through Technology

This initiative aims not only to improve security but also to create a safer and more conducive learning environment for students. Parents and stakeholders have lauded the move, emphasizing its importance in safeguarding students and deterring unwanted behavior on campus.

By leveraging technology, PMC is setting a precedent for prioritizing student safety in municipal schools. While challenges such as budget limitations remain, this phased rollout marks a significant step forward in addressing longstanding concerns and ensuring a secure future for students in Pune.