BMC to fast-track procurement of CCTV cameras for Freeway

To keep a check on the rash driving and incidents of mishaps on the Eastern Freeway, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has fast-tracked the process of installing 12 closed circuit television cameras (CCTVs). The moves comes in the wake of a request by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).

Civic officials said the cameras will be put up on the entire stretch, about 9.3 km, between Chembur and Orange Gate in south Mumbai. “The 12 CCTV cameras will be installed on the Eastern freeway. We have also written to the MMRDA about the same and it will be implemented on the priority basis,” said a senior civic official.

The official added that the cost, which will be borne by the civic body, will be around Rs 70 lakh.

“The CCTV cameras will be procured soon and we have fast-tracked the process. It will not only help in keeping a check on the rash driving, but also other traffic related issues such as monitoring suspicious movement on the freeway,” added the official.

Prior to its opening, concerns were raised about safety on the freeway and irresponsible driving by motorists. But at that time MMRDA had no plans to install CCTV cameras. Now, after witnessing a spate of accidents, it has realised the importance of these electronic devices.