Federal government has approved an expansion of the Islamabad Safe City Project to cover approximately 90 percent of the capital, with a total investment of Rs7.4 billion, according to official sources. The allocation includes Rs7.23 billion for technology costs, Rs13.6 million for staff salaries, Rs31.16 million for utilities, Rs144.68 million for consultancy, Rs1.4 million for ISP connectivity, and Rs74.25 million for contingencies. The project, originally launched in 2016 for Rs6 billion and transferred to Islamabad police in 2019, will now extend coverage from 13 to 28 police stations, incorporating state-of-the-art sensors, high-resolution cameras, and advanced analytics to monitor high-crime areas with precision.
Authorities have highlighted the need for system upgrades as much of the current infrastructure approaches its shelf life. The video management system is fragmented with outdated technologies, and around 80 percent of the system components require replacement to ensure seamless integration across all cameras and projects. Upgrading to a unified video management system is expected to improve operational efficiency, enhance integration with traffic and security networks, and maintain long-term functionality. Current ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) systems show partial functionality, and gaps remain in violation detection, e-challan processes, and device integration. Facial recognition systems are also nearing end-of-life, frequently malfunctioning, and lacking real-time blacklisting integration, limiting rapid identification and response capabilities.
The project will also address critical infrastructure requirements, including updating the data centre, UPS batteries, cooling units, power backups, and server hardware, which are all approaching obsolescence. Both video and application storage systems face frequent failures, and the absence of a backup site poses a significant operational risk. Establishing a backup facility at Diplomatic Enclave will allow for data recovery and continuity in case of major system failures. These enhancements are essential for ensuring high-quality surveillance footage, data integrity, and long-term sustainability of Safe City operations.
Under the expansion, approximately 3,187 new cameras with improved technical specifications will be installed, covering new locations and replacing low-specification cameras at select sites. Cameras will be positioned at high-value premises, entry and exit points, crime hotspots, public gatherings, traffic chokepoints, and other strategic locations. The upgrades are expected to enhance safety for citizens and visitors, provide real-time traffic monitoring, and improve the ability to respond to incidents quickly. The system will also support crisis management, track tactical and strategic operations, and facilitate intelligent traffic management. A Project Implementation and Management Unit (PIMU) will be set up at Central Police Office under IG Police supervision, comprising police officials, co-opted members, and technical staff to ensure effective execution and delivery of the project.
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