The Delhi Government is all set to install CCTV cameras to ensure the safety and security across the Capital after the approval of work advisory board Rs 571 crore project. In the first phase, 1.4 lakh cameras to be installed in November month only. 

Incidentally, the proposal for installing CCTV cameras, which became a bone of contention between Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and the ruling AAP, was passed by the Delhi Cabinet in August.

This may recalled, the Delhi Legislative Assembly also passed a resolution demanding immediate removal of Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash, accusing him of acting on behalf of the BJP Government at the Centre and trying to block the CCTV project.

Kejriwal also hit out at the Centre, which controls the Delhi Police, over rising crime against women across the national Capital.

The Home Ministry, PM office, Lieutenant Governor and police have failed in providing security to people of Delhi,” Kejriwal said earlier, adding that CCTV cameras would deter crime in the city.

The project was embroiled in a controversy with  L-G Anil Baijal forming a committee to frame rules for installation, operation and monitoring of CCTV cameras. The AAP had slammed the move as “delaying tactics”. Picking holes in the committee formed by the L-G, the Chief Minister said it had recommended license for installing CCTV cameras.

It means money will have to be paid for getting the licenses, he said.

The Project was given in principal approval to the CCTV camera project by the Delhi Government in October, 2015.”With the help of officers, they moved files in a way that the installation of CCTV cameras was delayed by three years,” Kejriwal said in the Assembly.

He asked the BJP legislators to ensure that the L-G creates no further “hurdles” in the implementation of the project. The estimated cost of the project by the Public Works Department (PWD) of Delhi Government is Rs 571.40 crore. It includes a capital cost of Rs 320.96 crore and maintenance cost of Rs 250.44 crore for a period of five years.