Railway Minister Orders CCTV Installation Following Tragic Train Accident in Tamil Nadu

CCTV Measures Implemented After Fatal Incident

In the wake of a tragic incident in Tamil Nadu's Cuddalore district, where a passenger train collided with a school van resulting in the deaths of three children, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conducted a review of railway safety on July 9. He has mandated the installation of CCTV systems at all level crossings.

Additionally, to enhance passenger safety, the minister has directed that CCTV cameras be installed in all 74,000 railway coaches and 15,000 engines. According to a statement released by the Ministry of Railways on Sunday, Vaishnaw and Union Minister of State for Railways, Ravneet Singh Bittu, assessed the benefits of CCTV cameras that were trialed in the Northern Railway, leading to this decision.

To maintain passenger privacy, cameras will be positioned in common areas near the doors. The press release stated, 'The Union Railway Minister has approved the installation of CCTV cameras in all 74,000 coaches and 15,000 engines. Each railway coach will be equipped with four cameras, with two positioned at each entry point.'

The statement further elaborated, 'Each engine will have six CCTV cameras, including one at the front, back, and on both sides.'

A senior railway official involved in the review mentioned, 'It has been instructed that all level crossing gates must be equipped with CCTV systems and necessary recording equipment. Power supply for the CCTV systems should also be made available at level crossings, which can be sourced from commercial supply, solar panels, battery backups, or UPS systems. This task is to be completed in mission mode.'