So far, 22 cameras have been installed at various places, including the bus stand, Dada Vaidya Chowk, and Tisk. The work is expected to be completed and inaugurated on January 26.
The PMC had taken a resolution a long time ago to install 65 cameras with MP funds. South Goa MP Narendra Sawaikar had taken the lead in installing the CCTVs in Ponda and had stated that cameras were a need of the hour.
According to Councillor Venkatesh Naik, the CCTVs have been installed for security of the locals and to prevent crimes.
It was learnt that the Ponda police station will be in charge of the cameras, which will help them obtain information about criminals in the city.
According to citizen Viraj Sapre, installation of CCTVs was a long-pending demand of Ponda locals as there were many instances of chain-snatching and thefts. He hoped that Ponda Police and the traffic cell would make good use of the cameras to keep a check on crime and traffic violations.
While Ponda local Anil Naik welcomed the move, he also opined that the traffic cell may use the CCTVs to harass motorists for trivial violations. He stated that before using the CCTV footage to issue challans, there should be ample parking and traffic management in the town.
