CCTV cameras plan on fast-track: CM

Chavan said PWC had informed the government in a meeting on Tuesday that they had prepared the EoI and will issue it soon. Questioned about the three-year delay in procuring the cameras,Chavan said: The process is on; it was necessary to review the progress. There is no doubt that CCTV video surveillance has to be put in place,but I cannot give a deadline for the implementation. I assure you it will be done on priority basis.

The Chief Minister said in the past,they had got in touch with the Scotland Yard to seek information on the system they have in place and they will again establish contact with them. He said there was a need to learn from the experiences of London,which has a similar network,and the steps taken during the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi.

Chavan said a company and an NGO had on Tuesday made presentations regarding setting up CCTV cameras in the city. He said a high-power committee had been appointed to take decisions regarding procurement of cameras. The committee has the authority to place orders,it doesnt have to go before the Cabinet, said Chavan.

Officials said CCTV cameras will be set up in a phased manner,with about 1,800 cameras to be set up initially.