When the third eye remains tightly shut

Who should maintain CCTV cameras installed at public roads and colonies? Is it the resident welfare association that installed the cameras or the police?

A 2021 report in South Asia Journal noted that Chennai had the maximum CCTV coverage per square kilometre and for every 1,000 people. The survey took 130 cities worldwide into consideration.

It pegged Chennai as having 657 cameras per sq km.

Three years down the line, if one were to discount the cameras that do not function where would Chennai be?

The Hindu Downtown spoke to various resident welfare associations to find out how many of the CCTV cameras installed by them with much fanfare are in the best of condition.

“The RA Puram Residents Association (RAPRA) installed 30 CCTV cameras, covering the seven streets and many cross streets. These cameras have been instrumental in solving thefts and enhancing safety in the area. However, many cameras are now missing or are not working, especially the one near Puthu Kovil, covering First Cross Street and 7th Main Road,” says Dr. R Chandrashekar, president, RAPRA.

He notes that residents have urged the E4 Police Station to address the issue as maintenance of cameras is the responsibility of the police. Residents have requested a new camera in front of a demolished community hall on 7th Main Road, a spot frequently used for illegal activities.

Sathyamoorthy S., general secretary of Krishnapuram Residents Association in Ambattur, says all cameras installed a few years ago are non-functional. Similarly, P. Aravindan from Tambaram Sanatorium noted that most CCTV cameras, installed by both police and RWAs are not working at Sundaram Colony RWA.