The ambitious plan to put almost all the major areas of the state capital under video surveillance has been passed. The fund for installing the cameras that would keep an eye on important junctions, markets and roads has been sanctioned.

In all, 100 cameras would be installed in the state capital. Already, nearly two-dozen exist. With more cameras, the police expect that it would get leads that would help in solving crimes, like identifying persons involved in robberies and other crimes on the street.

Rs 2.4 crore has been sanctioned for the purpose. The cameras would conduct video recording and the archive would also be stored so that in case there are leads later, the footage could be scanned to corroborate statements or identify suspects.

Besides, police also hope that with the installation of cameras and criminals knowing that they are under watch, incidents like molestations and loots would reduce. The police are right now busy identifying the '100 points' that would be put under video surveillance.

A complete setup for monitoring and archival recording is needed for the system. The money has been made available through the road safety fund. Earlier, it was seen that certain cameras that were installed later stopped working, and when the recording was sought, it was found that there was no footage. Now police officials want to ensure that the system works continuously.

Police thus pushed for funds so that there is no lack of maintenance after the installation of cameras. There will be a centralised control room that would be established soon. The video cameras would also serve as deterrence, hope the officials.