Pune Police Plan ₹70 Crore High-Tech Security For City Hills 

Enhanced surveillance measures to curb rising crimes; proposal set for government review on December 2. 

In a significant step toward improving safety across Pune’s hillocks, the city police have formulated a ₹70 crore plan aimed at upgrading security infrastructure. Acting on directives from former Home Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the proposal focuses on installing state-of-the-art surveillance systems at over thirteen hillocks, which are frequented by residents for recreational purposes but have increasingly become hotspots for crimes like robbery and assault.

Crucial Initiative Announced by Fadnavis

During the recent inauguration of seven new police stations in Pune, Fadnavis highlighted the urgent need to secure vulnerable locations such as the city’s hillocks. He assured dedicated funding for this purpose. Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar confirmed that the detailed proposal, outlining security measures and identified crime-prone areas, would be submitted to the state government on December 2.

State-of-the-Art Surveillance Features

The plan includes the installation of approximately 600 advanced surveillance cameras at identified black spots. These cameras will feature PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom), fixed, and ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) capabilities. Integrated with IP-based systems, the cameras will help capture clear facial images of repeat offenders, enabling their identification through facial recognition technology. 

Panic Button System for Black Spots

As part of the initiative, panic buttons will be installed at high-risk locations. Pressing the panic button will instantly notify the police control room, trigger video recording from nearby cameras, and activate alert systems in patrolling police vehicles. This ensures swift action by officers while maintaining real-time footage of incidents.

Two-Way Public Address System and Enhanced Lighting

To improve night-time security, the plan incorporates a two-way public address (PA) system with microphones and speakers for instant communication. Additionally, 177 floodlights will be installed to enhance visibility during darker hours. The project also introduces seven mobile surveillance vehicles equipped with drones for broader area coverage.

Connectivity and Maintenance

The ₹70 crore project includes three years of maintenance and repair services. It also addresses network challenges by incorporating radio-frequency technology for uninterrupted connectivity in remote areas.

Surveyed Locations

The police have conducted extensive surveys across several hillocks, including Hanuman Tekdi, Taljai, ARAI Tekdi, Baner Tekdi, Vetal Baba Tekdi, Parvati Hill, and Canal Road. These locations have been identified as priorities due to their vulnerability to criminal activities. The plan lists more than thirteen hillocks and seven black spots requiring immediate attention.

Implementation Timeline 

Commissioner Kumar emphasized that the proposal builds upon the findings of a detailed survey and was set to be presented to the Home Department on Monday, December 2. The ambitious project aims to ensure that Pune’s hillocks remain safe and accessible for all residents.

This initiative underscores Pune Police’s commitment to leveraging technology for public safety while addressing growing concerns over crimes in the city’s natural recreational spaces.