RPF installs solar-powered CCTV cameras in Secunderabad to curb stone pelting

The Railway Protection Force has installed solar-powered CCTV cameras at three vulnerable locations in the Secunderabad railway division to curb stone-pelting, vandalism and trespassing. The surveillance system will aid investigations, enhance passenger safety and may be expanded to other sensitive locations.

Hyderabad: Railway passengers travelling through Secunderabad can expect enhanced security with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) deploying solar-powered CCTV cameras at vulnerable locations to crack down on stone-pelting and vandalism targeting moving trains.

This latest surveillance initiative is expected to help identify offenders quickly and prevent attacks that have repeatedly endangered passengers and damaged railway property.

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The cameras have been installed at three sensitive locations within the Secunderabad railway division, where incidents of stone pelting have been reported in the past.

According to railway authorities, since many of these stretches do not have a reliable electricity supply, the RPF opted for solar-powered surveillance units that can function independently throughout the day. “The cameras are mounted on high poles, giving them a wide field of view over railway tracks and surrounding areas,” said a senior RPF official.

The CCTV units are capable of continuously recording activities around the tracks. The footage will be monitored by the RPF and used to identify individuals involved in stone-pelting, trespassing, theft of railway assets and other unlawful activities. The recorded videos will also serve as crucial evidence during investigations and prosecution.

The move comes in response to recurring attacks on trains passing through isolated stretches around Secunderabad. Such incidents have not only caused damage to coach windows but have also posed a serious threat to passenger safety.

RPF officials said even a single stone thrown at a moving train can shatter windowpanes, injure passengers and disrupt rail operations.

Officials explained that the decision to install solar-powered cameras was taken after identifying vulnerable points where conventional surveillance was difficult due to the absence of electricity infrastructure.

Apart from monitoring railway tracks, the cameras are expected to help keep a watch on habitual trespassers, prevent theft of railway materials and deter anti-social elements from entering restricted areas. The surveillance network will also enable RPF personnel to respond quickly whenever suspicious activity is detected.

Officials warned that strict legal action will be taken against those found damaging railway property or attacking moving trains, as such offences carry severe penalties under the Railways Act and other laws.

Railway authorities said the performance of the newly installed surveillance system will be reviewed periodically, and additional solar-powered CCTV cameras may be installed at other vulnerable locations if required.