Pune, 7th July 2025: A major security concern has surfaced in Pune’s Pimple Gurav, Pimple Saudagar, and New Sangvi areas, as over 50% of CCTV cameras installed under the Smart City project are currently non-functional. These cameras were meant to bolster surveillance and aid police in monitoring crime, traffic violations, and accidents. However, residents now face reduced security due to the breakdown of this critical infrastructure.
In Pimple Gurav alone, 27 CCTV locations were set up, while Pimple Saudagar has 79 such locations. Most of these cameras are reportedly out of service. As a result, large sections of these neighbourhoods are now outside real-time surveillance coverage. Given the rising concerns around vehicle thefts, chain snatching, and street altercations, residents are alarmed by the lack of monitoring.
The Pune Municipal Corporation has cited roadwork and resulting technical difficulties as reasons for the disruption. However, locals question why regular maintenance isn’t prioritized when crores are spent on other Smart City components like roads, drains, and LED streetlights. Despite Smart City branding visible across the area, the non-functional cameras are creating frustration among citizens.
"It’s unclear which department owns which camera. In emergencies, we struggle to know whom to contact. Each pole should have a board with department name and contact info.
Sanjay Marathe, Resident – Pimple Gurav
To improve future surveillance, many citizens have urged the authorities to install AI-enabled cameras during repair or replacement. Such advanced systems can assist in quicker identification of suspects and enhance police response. While previous coordination among multiple contractors caused inefficiencies, officials claim all camera operations have now been brought under the Smart City unit with a centralized technical team.
"Installing cameras is a good step, but if they’re not working, what’s the point? After the incidents, we couldn’t even find out who manages the camera for footage."
Sandeep Kate, Resident – Pimple Saudagar
Authorities are currently repairing the faulty cameras and have promised to restore full surveillance soon. Out of a total of 2,022 cameras installed citywide under the Smart City initiative, a complete functional network is expected to significantly boost safety. Meanwhile, residents are also demanding that each camera pole display a board with the responsible department’s contact number to ensure timely citizen support during emergencies.
"A unified technical team is now working to repair the faulty cameras. Once operational, the city’s surveillance will improve significantly."
Vijay Kannan, General Manager, Smart City
