CISF wants more eyes around Metro stations

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) have identified 700 ‘vulnerable spots' in and around 134 Metro stations and asked the Delhi Metro to install CCTV cameras to enhance security there. Faizan Haidar reports.

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) have identified 700 ‘vulnerable spots' in and around 134 Metro stations and asked the Delhi Metro to install CCTV cameras to enhance security there.

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The dark spots were identified by the CISF, responsible for Metro security, during a security audit. One of the most sensitive installations from the point of view of security, Metro stations in the city already have some cameras but most of them cover operational aspects.

Although there are many Metro stations where the CISF has requested the DMRC to install more cameras, some of the most vulnerable ones are Ashok Park main, Inderlok, Kirti Nagar, Rajiv Chowk, Kashmere Gate and Central Secretariat.

"When DMRC had installed cameras, their objective was to cover the operational aspects. Now from the control room, our concern is security and for that we have also asked the DMRC to relocate the existing cameras," said a senior CISF official, requesting anonymity.

The Metro had installed about 5,300 cameras at its various stations. But one problem that CISF faces is that these cameras are fixed and cannot be moved to have a closer look at a suspicious person or activity.

"Since the cameras are fixed, they can only cover a certain range. If two fixed cameras are installed at a certain distance, they are bound to have a blind spot. Thus, we have requested for cameras that should have pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) facility so, according to situation, we can enlarge the area the camera is covering," the official added.

Most of the dark spots are on the first-floor of elevated stations. Apart from cameras, the CISF are also likely to get nearly 3,500 more personnel for Metro security.

Another major concern is the parking area and areas outside the station that is neither covered by CCTV cameras or the CISF.

"At some places we have asked the DMRC to install cameras at the entry gate so that we can have a look at what is happening outside the station. The Delhi Police are responsible for security outside the stations but at vulnerable stations, our staff also conducts patrolling," he added.

In big elevated stations, the CISF generally deploys security on the first or second floor and as a result, the ground floor remains unmanned.

Also, CISF will now have Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) at every Metro station. In addition, for better monitoring of passengers and keeping a track of suspicious items, the force will have a control room at every Metro station.