A worrying trend has emerged in Kalyan, where a gang of thieves has been systematically targeting the Smart City CCTV infrastructure, leaving large parts of the city vulnerable and raising serious safety concerns.
According to reports, more than 170 batteries have been stolen from CCTV units installed under the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) limits over the past year. In addition, thieves have also stolen UPS systems, costly power cables, and junction box switches.The pattern suggests a well-organized operation aimed at disabling surveillance infrastructure across the city.
The thefts have been reported from multiple high-traffic locations in Kalyan, especially in the western belt. Major hotspots include:
- Karnik Road Kalyan and Subhash Chowk
- Prem Auto Chowk Kalyan
- Lal Chauki Kalyan
- Waldhuni Naka Kalyan
- Katemanivali Kalyan East
In several cases, the theft itself has been captured on other functioning CCTV cameras, showing suspects dismantling equipment without fear.
The theft of backup batteries has effectively crippled the CCTV network. These batteries are crucial during power cuts without them, cameras shut down instantly.This has created blind spots in surveillance, which criminals are reportedly exploiting to commit offenses like chain snatching, vehicle theft, and other crimes without being recorded.Residents say the situation has created a sense of insecurity, especially during late-night hours.
While FIRs have been registered in multiple cases, officials admit that monitoring such a vast and spread-out CCTV network remains a challenge. Contractors associated with the Smart City project have also expressed concerns over repeated losses and lack of effective protection mechanisms.
The growing menace of battery thefts in Kalyan has exposed serious vulnerabilities in the city’s Smart City surveillance system. With over 170 units already stolen, urgent action is needed to strengthen security, prevent further damage, and restore public confidence in safety infrastructure.
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