Thane Zilla Parishad Launches Major CCTV Initiative for School Safety
In a significant move to bolster student security, the Thane Zilla Parishad has announced plans to equip 1,329 schools across the district with a comprehensive CCTV network by April 2026. This initiative, confirmed by officials on Friday, aims to bring rural educational institutions under digital surveillance, creating a safer environment for students in response to past incidents, such as the 2024 Badlapur assault case.
Phased Implementation and Current Progress
The project is being executed in two phases, funded through the district planning committee. In the first phase for the fiscal year 2024–25, CCTV installation was planned for 542 schools. According to the primary education department, installation has already been completed in 524 schools under the guidance of Chief Executive Officer Ranjit Yadav. Key progress includes:
- Kalyan taluka: 120 cameras installed.
- Bhiwandi taluka: 308 cameras installed.
- Ambernath: 96 cameras installed, with work ongoing in 18 schools.
Future Plans and Expected Benefits
The second phase, approved under the 2025–26 fiscal allocation, involves installing CCTV systems in 329 schools in Murbad and 457 schools in Shahapur, with full operational status targeted by April 2026. Thane ZP authorities emphasize that this surveillance network will:
- Monitor activities within school premises to prevent inappropriate incidents.
- Ensure a safer and more secure environment for students.
- Improve transparency and discipline on campuses.
Balasaheb Rakshe, Thane ZP's education officer, stated, "With CCTV systems already installed in 524 schools, the remaining schools are also being covered in phases, and our school campuses will soon be more secure." This initiative reflects a proactive approach to leveraging technology for enhanced safety in educational settings.
