Maharashtra government to use drones for surveillance in prisons
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Mumbai: The Maharashtra government is planning to use drones for surveillance in major prisons in the state. It is part of the prison modernisation drive.
The government will be buying around 12 Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones fitted with cameras) valued at Rs 1.8 crore and four X-Ray baggage inspection systems valued at Rs 1.94 crore, said an official. He told PTI that the home department sanctioned funds to purchase modern security-related equipment for the prisons department on Monday.
These surveillance drones will enable authorities to monitor the activities of prison inmates while enhancing their safety.
Maharashtra's prison system is struggling with more inmates than it can manage. As of January 31, 2023, the 60 jails in the state have 41,075 inmates. The total capacity is just 24.722. "The number of inmates in 18 out of the total of 60 jails in the state is double or more than twice the capacity. These jails include Mumbai Central Jail (446% occupancy rate), Thane Central Jail (389%), and Buldhana District Jail (387%) among others.