Staff Reporter
Margao
A total of 38 CCTV cameras installed over a decade ago in Margao’s commercial areas and surrounding zones at a cost of Rs 18 lakh have remained non-functional for several years, primarily due to the absence of a maintenance plan.
The CCTV cameras were installed in 2013 were funded through the MPLADS (Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme) quota. The installation aimed to enhance surveillance and improve public safety in the town’s busy zones.
While the Margao Traffic Cell was tasked with overseeing the operation of the cameras, confusion over who was responsible for their maintenance—whether the traffic cell or the municipal council—has left the system in disrepair.
A site inspection found that several cameras are either dangling precariously or have turned into mere ornamental fixtures.
Currently, Margao has no functioning CCTV surveillance, raising concerns about security and traffic enforcement in the bustling commercial town.
“Camera surveillance is crucial in the Margao town areas. We had previously proposed the installation of such cameras, but those plans did not materialise,” said Sanjay Dalvi, Police Inspector of the Margao Traffic Cell.
“Recently, we convened a meeting with the South Collector to address this issue. The Margao Municipal Council has indicated they have proposed the installation of 30 new CCTV cameras, with 15 for the Sonsoddo area and the remaining 15 for other significant locations in Margao.”
Dalvi said that with proper maintenance, CCTV cameras could be vital in enhancing public safety. “The presence of CCTV cameras will contribute to a reduction in crime rates. Both the police and traffic authorities would also benefit from their role in crime detection,” he said.
