CCTV cameras are installed at Alappuzha KSRTC bus station to curb anti-social activity

Amid widespread complaints about anti-social activities at night, Alappuzha Kerala Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus station in Kerala and surrounding areas have conducted CCTV surveillance.

Officials said seven cameras have been installed at a cost of Rs 2.5 lakh, part of an effort to improve security in the region. Although two cameras were installed on the KSRTC bus stand, a camera was set up near the Fire Department, the residential area, Matha Boat Jetty, the KSRTC workshop and Jos Alukkas Junction. A control room was also set up in the Alappuzha South Police Department to monitor CCTV footage. The cameras were installed by the Alapazar Regional Government in partnership with Care for Alleppey, which sponsored the program. Earlier, the municipality of Alappuzha installed high mast lights at the bus station.

The move comes after widespread complaints that bus stations have become a safe haven for anti-social elements. There have been several incidents of misconduct and immoral activity, especially in the later stages. There are also cases of physical attacks on individuals who attempt to intervene or question such activities.

In response, a senior meeting, chaired by regional collector Alex Varghese several months ago, decided to take strict action to oppose unethical activities at bus stops. The meeting also decided to install CCTV cameras and high-mast lights. It directed police and excise tax to enhance surveillance at the bus terminal and its surrounding areas to curb anti-social activity.

Regular inspections

In addition to the intensification of enhanced patrols, a joint squad of police officers, Alapuzha municipalities, consumer officials, Shikhara ship operators and representatives of the Association of Residents, has also been established to conduct regular inspections at and around the bus station.

Regional collectors opened the CCTV system on Wednesday. Assistant Transport Officer A. Ajith, Civil Judge and District Legal Services Director Pramod Murali, District Police Chief Mohana Chandran, Alappuzha Municipal Chairman KK Jayamma, fears Alleppey Chairman CV Ajay and others attend.