Team Herald
PONDA: The old CCTV system installed in Ponda over a decade ago has become little more than a showpiece, with all cameras now defunct after initially functioning for just a few years. The lack of maintenance has been cited as the primary reason for their failure.
In light of increasing incidents of crime, including theft and chain snatching, residents are calling for a new CCTV surveillance system to be installed not only in parts of Ponda town but also along highways, three bypass roads, and internal road junctions. They believe that enhanced surveillance could provide crucial leads for police investigations following crimes or accidents.
Local resident Naresh Naik expressed frustration, stating that the CCTV cameras, funded through an MPLAD initiative, have merely become decorative fixtures in the town, bus stand and market area. He noted that the rise in theft and chain snatching has left Ponda residents feeling insecure without adequate surveillance.
Naik recounted the recent incident where an elderly woman was robbed by thieves posing as police officers at the Dhavalim junction on the NH, losing gold ornaments worth Rs 4 lakh.
Dhavalim local Vinod Naik added that there are no CCTV cameras at key junctions to ensure public safety and several homes and flats have been burgled recently. He emphasized the need for high-quality cameras, particularly those with night vision capabilities, to capture vehicle details in low-light conditions.
Vishal Fadte echoed these concerns, highlighting the urgent need for CCTV coverage on highways and internal roads due to the rising crime rates and accidents. He pointed out that the 22 CCTV cameras installed across Ponda in 2014-15 have since become non-functional. As a result, police often have to rely on private CCTV systems during investigations, which may not provide the necessary details.
Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) officials have stated that they are in the process of installing high-quality cameras in the PMC area. However, residents of Ponda are advocating for comprehensive coverage of all main junctions, internal roads, and bypasses with a new CCTV system to enhance safety and security in the community.