74,000 coaches, 15,000 locomotives to have CCTV cameras

The Indian Railways will install CCTV cameras in nearly 74,000 coaches and 15,000 locomotives as part of a large-scale security upgrade aimed at improving passenger safety and deterring crime.

In a written reply to Rajya Sabha, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the move was intended to curb incidents of vandalism, theft and other criminal activity, while also aiding investigations. Each coach will be fitted with four cameras —two at each entrance — while locomotives will have six cameras, covering the front, rear, both sides, and each cab, along with two desk-mounted microphones.

The cameras, certified by the Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification Directorate and built to the latest RDSO specifications, will be capable of delivering high-quality footage even at train speeds exceeding 100 kmph.

Pilot trials were conducted on Northern Railway to assess the effectiveness of the system from a security standpoint. Based on the results, zonal railways and production units have been instructed to begin installations. The minister said the project was expected to serve as a deterrent against miscreants and enhance overall passenger security across the network.