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Kolkata Metro's Blue Line, the country's oldest corridor, is moving towards a major security upgrade with an AI-enabled, IP-based CCTV system targeted for completion by March 2026. The INR 25.34 crore project includes installing 1,678 cameras across stations and RPF posts, supported by a centralised monitoring setup and 240 TB storage at Metro Bhawan. The system will help identify unattended items, unusual movement, perimeter breaches, and crowd patterns. Officials expect the new network to improve passenger safety and support better station management through real-time analytics.
Kolkata Metro's Blue Line, which has been operational since 1984 and is the oldest metro corridor in India, is set to receive a comprehensive CCTV upgrade. The corridor will transition to an AI-enabled, IP-based surveillance network, with completion targeted for March 2026. The project follows the Letter of Acceptance issued in June and remains within the planned timeline, according to Brihaspathi Technologies Ltd, the company handling the installation. Advertisement
The project is valued at INR 25.34 crore and includes the deployment of 1,678 high-resolution cameras. Out of these, 1,625 units will be installed across Blue Line stations, while 53 cameras will be placed at Railway Protection Force locations. The system will consist of Full HD and 4K UHD cameras, covering platforms, entry and exit points, concourses, and other sensitive areas. Older, station-level systems will be replaced with a centralised architecture designed to support continuous real-time monitoring.
The upgraded network will use AI-based capabilities to identify potential risks such as unattended bags, perimeter breaches, abnormal crowd movement, or unauthorised access. These detections will immediately alert trained operators. The company's Managing Director, Rajasekhar Papolu, mentioned that the project shifts surveillance from basic monitoring to a more active, intelligence-supported model that allows security teams to act faster and more effectively.
A 240 TB centralised storage system will be set up at Metro Bhawan to retain recordings for up to 30 days. Facial recognition capabilities will also be part of the system, helping with identification during security checks or incident investigations. Along with security enhancements, the system will generate useful operational data, including crowd heat maps, congestion patterns, and platform dwell-time analysis. This information is expected to help the Metro deploy staff efficiently and improve crowd management during busy hours.
A senior Kolkata Metro official stated that passenger safety and smooth station operations remain key priorities. Brihaspathi Technologies added that it is aligning fibre cabling, control room setup, and equipment installation in phases to ensure that the commissioning of the new system is efficient and avoids disruptions. The company also highlighted its experience across smart city projects, metro networks, and other large-scale security systems.
The introduction of this AI-powered CCTV network is one of the most significant surveillance updates within the eastern region and marks an important step in modernising the Kolkata Metro's security framework.
Source PTI
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