Team Herald
MARGAO: Goa’s commercial capital is currently facing a significant challenge as its entire CCTV surveillance network has been rendered non-functional, leading to a growing concern for residents and civic leaders, particularly due to the increase in crime, illegal garbage disposal, and the unrestricted entry of unidentified individuals into the town.
The existing surveillance system, initially installed in 2013 through the MPLAD scheme, has been inactive for several years due to the lack of a proper maintenance plan. These cameras, which were intended to bolster public safety and improve traffic management, are now merely non-functioning fixtures across key urban areas. Consequently, Margao is becoming increasingly susceptible to both criminal activities and a decline in civic discipline.
Residents have reported a notable rise in public garbage dumping incidents, especially during nighttime hours, as violators operate without fear of surveillance.
Highlighting the issue, Cedric D’Costa, a local resident said, “There have been break-ins and thefts in the commercial areas, but we have no footage to trace the culprits. What’s the point of installing cameras if there’s no plan to maintain them?”
Social activists also emphasised that the absence of working CCTV coverage presents a serious security vulnerability, especially given the town’s increasing number of visitors.
Vivek Naik, a social activist said, “The town has no idea who’s entering or leaving, especially at night. This is not just a municipal oversight—it’s a public safety crisis. The cameras are the need of the hour.”
On a positive note, a recent meeting at the District Collectorate brought together officials, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to address the urgent need to reactivate the surveillance system. The outcome of this discussion was a decision to install approximately 30 CCTV cameras in the initial phase, with strategic locations being identified to ensure maximum coverage and effectiveness.
Law enforcement officials have also voiced their concerns regarding how the lack of surveillance significantly impedes their ability to effectively respond to criminal activities and manage traffic violations. While other regions in Goa have advanced to centralised monitoring systems, Margao, despite its commercial importance, has not kept pace.
Residents believe that restoring the CCTV system is no longer simply an option but a critical requirement for the town’s safety and future.