Citizen Connect: Shortage of funds hits CCTV installation at Perambur, leaves residents at risk

According to the residents, there was an urgent need to install CCTV cameras here, especially at some of the sensitive locations like Venkatraman Street - Bharathi Road intersection and Thiruvengadam Street- Vasan Street- Patel Road intersection.

“A pillar for CCTV cameras was installed several months ago at the Saraswathi Square - Venkatraman Fourth Street junction. But since then, nothing has been done to complete the work. Similarly, pillars have been erected at other locations within Perambur but left untouched after that,” said Raghukumar Choodamani, a resident of Perambur.

Residents said that they were hopeful to get CCTV cameras in the area after the poles were installed. “After demanding the installation of CCTVs for enhancing of the security in the neighbourhood for a long time, the residents were happy when the work was initiated. However, even after two months, the cameras are nowhere in sight. We are very disappointed that the work remains pending for a long time and there has been no assurance from the authorities,” said another resident.

The people here rued that many parts of the localities near the Venkatraman Street were not properly lit. Making use of this, anti-social elements were creating nuisance in the area, they added.

“Due to the lack of proper illumination and CCTV cameras, there is a security risk in the area. The area should get CCTVs coverage to avoid crimes. There are many tipplers who cause nuisance to the residents and in case of any problems, CCTV cameras will be helpful in taking action against them. However, the police are not understanding the seriousness of the issue despite it being a long-pending demand of the residents,” added G Ravita, a resident of the area.

When they tried to approach the police officials in the area regarding the issue, the officials reportedly said that the installation of CCTV cameras was on hold because of the shortage of funds. When contacted, the local police officials were not available to comment on the matter.