Pune Police Begin AI CCTV Rollout in Mohammadwadi–NIBM Annexe After Years of Resident Pressure
Mohammadwadi, 26th November 2025: In response to long-standing demands from local residents, Pune Police have started deploying AI-enabled CCTV cameras across the Mohammadwadi and NIBM Annexe areas. Key installations include SM Ghule Circle, Anandvan Gate near the government reserve forest by Siddheshwar Temple, and several internal streets. The initiative comes amid growing concerns over late-night robberies, suspicious vehicles, and public safety in the neighbourhood.
Jaymala Dhankikar, a social activist and long-time NIBM Annexe resident, has been instrumental in pushing for the surveillance upgrade. “For the past two years, we have urged authorities to ensure women, children, and senior citizens feel safe in our neighbourhood. Placing cameras at Anandvan Gate and other sensitive locations is an important step toward that goal,” she said.
Her efforts, alongside recent directives from Rupali Chakankar, chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, played a pivotal role in moving the project forward.
Residents report that over the last five years, issues such as late-night rowdiness, reckless driving, and street accidents have become increasingly common, particularly near restaurants and residential complexes. In August 2025, a violent street fight near Golden Bakery left several people injured, with police taking over an hour to respond. Locals say such gatherings often involve loud music, alcohol, and dangerous driving. In a separate incident, a speeding car fatally struck a pedestrian near Raheja Premiere, highlighting the risks posed by night-time activity and inadequate infrastructure.
Civic infrastructure challenges have compounded safety concerns. Narrow lanes, poorly lit streets, and blind turns have made movement in NIBM Annexe risky, especially for women and senior citizens.
Unauthorized hoardings, illegal constructions, and iron sheds near junctions such as SM Ghule Circle have reduced visibility and complicated traffic flow, making effective surveillance difficult. The combination of criminal incidents and civic neglect has left previously peaceful areas feeling unsafe after dark.
ACP (IT) Vivek Pawar, overseeing the CCTV rollout, said, “We are committed to improving public safety in Mohammadwadi and NIBM Annexe. After setting up cameras at high-priority locations, we plan to expand coverage to internal roads and blind spots. Residents’ safety, especially that of women and children, is our top priority.”
Authorities believe that with this enhanced surveillance system and active community participation, criminal activities can be curtailed, and a sense of security restored in the area.
