DU to install AI CCTV

Dhaka University (DU) campus is becoming brighter after LED lights were switched on at several road islands in the evening. Students and pedestrians believe better lighting could help reduce risks of harassment of female students, mugging, drug use and related incidents. At the same time, calls are growing to link the lighting system with stronger technology-based surveillance.

However, the university administration says the roadside lights are not part of any new initiative. They are maintained as part of the administration’s regular activities.

DU Proctor Israfil Ratan said, “The lights beside the campus roads are not a new initiative of the administration. This is a regular activity. No new lights have been installed.”

An inspection also found several non-functional lights and some CCTV cameras that were not working. Repair work is underway, the proctor said.

The university is also working on a new technology-based security system. Israfil Ratan said, “We are working to install a new digital system and AI-based CCTV cameras on the campus. The vice-chancellor has discussed the matter with representatives of different agencies and organisations.”

According to the proctor, the AI-based system will make it possible to monitor who enters and leaves the campus. It will also provide clearer images of people captured by CCTV cameras.

He said, “Several incidents have taken place on the campus before. But the faces of those responsible could not be seen clearly on CCTV. This made it difficult to identify the offenders. Therefore, the vice-chancellor is also seriously considering installing a digital, AI-based CCTV system on the campus.”

The proposed technology-based surveillance system is expected to strengthen campus security and improve the ability to identify people and incidents when necessary.
//DBTech/DEO/SME/MIS//