Pune varsity plans to beef up security

The University of Pune (UoP) plans to beef up its security. As many as 100 CCTV cameras are proposed to be installed across the UoP. ML Jadhav, registrar of UoP, confirmed that surveys had been conducted at the varsity to compile the list of spots where the CCTV cameras and other security equipment that would be required. This new security plan follows an idea originally mooted by former vice chancellor RK Shevgaonkar.

A source in the university told DNA that the recent cases of fraud committed in the examination section where three Iranian students managed to fudge records in the examination section had forced the university to fast track the security plans. Sources at the UoP said that the majority of the cameras would be installed in the examination section, especially as a lot of discrepancies had been reported from this department.

A source said, “We are yet to finalise the agency but the talks are on. Information is being gathered about technology available and required and the budgeting is being done. At present, there are eight locations such as girls and international students’ hostel, main gate, Jayakar library and other areas where CCTV cameras have been installed. According to the survey report, all teaching and non teaching departments will be monitored by cameras. The maximum cameras are proposed to be set up in the exam section.’’

According to the source, a few agencies had been contacted to get information on cameras and their costs. “There is an agency that provided security at Heathrow International Airport which is amongst leading choices for providing security equipment. As far as CCTV cameras go, there is one kind of camera that records even slightest of movement by taking pictures of moving objects which we plan to install in sensitive locations,’’ the source said.
When contacted, RV Patil, executive engineer, estate department refused to give a timeline of when project would be implemented completely. “We have started work on our seniors’ instructions and cannot give you any details of timeline. It shall be done soon but there is no deadline,’’ said Patil. When asked if the budget for this project had been sanctioned, he clarified that there were existing funds for security equipment but refused to give further details.