In a major push to enhance passenger safety and surveillance, the Indian Railways has announced a landmark decision to install CCTV cameras in all 74,000 coaches and 15,000 locomotives across its network. The move is aimed at bolstering security, particularly during overnight journeys, where safety concerns have often been raised by travelers.
This initiative, approved under Railway Board directive No. 22706, marks one of the largest digital surveillance rollouts in the country’s public transport sector. Each coach will be fitted with multiple high-definition cameras, with real-time monitoring systems integrated into central control rooms to ensure timely action during emergencies.
Railway officials emphasized that the decision reflects a commitment to passenger well-being, deterring crimes such as theft, harassment, and vandalism onboard. Locomotives will also be equipped with cabin-facing and track-viewing cameras to enhance transparency and operational oversight.
“This is a big leap toward safer, smarter train travel,” said a senior Railway Ministry official. “The presence of CCTV will not only help in better crowd management but also act as a preventive measure against unlawful activities.”
Passengers and security experts have welcomed the decision, calling it a “good initiative” that aligns with modern safety expectations in public transport.
The project will be rolled out in phases over the next 18–24 months, with priority given to premium trains, overnight services, and high-traffic routes. The footage will be stored securely and made available to authorities in case of incidents requiring investigation.
With this step, Indian Railways reaffirms its commitment to transforming travel into a more secure and passenger-friendly experience across its vast network.
