Sirajganj town’s technology-based security network has largely collapsed as most government-installed CCTV cameras remain out of order, leaving key areas without surveillance and raising concerns over a possible rise in crime.
Residents say the absence of functioning cameras has made it harder to prevent and investigate incidents such as theft, mugging, clashes and harassment. Police are now often forced to rely on footage from private establishments, which is unavailable in many locations.
With nearly two lakh people living in the district headquarters, locals fear criminals may take advantage of the surveillance gap.
According to district police sources, 100 high-powered CCTV cameras were installed at 65 important points across the town in 2021 under an initiative of the district police. The cameras were monitored round the clock from a central monitoring cell at the Superintendent of Police’s office.
The system initially played a key role in detecting crimes, with footage becoming crucial evidence in several investigations and helping police identify suspects.
However, the network gradually became ineffective due to a lack of proper maintenance. Many cameras stopped working, while some were stolen or damaged, leaving a large part of the town outside surveillance coverage.
Residents said inadequate monitoring at important roads and intersections, especially at night, has created a sense of insecurity among women, students and businesspeople.
Mohammad Tajuddin Ahmed, a resident, said, “If the cameras installed for public safety do not work, where will ordinary people go? Surveillance is needed to prevent crimes, not just investigate them afterwards.”
Mohammad Shahriar Hossain Shipu said CCTV cameras help deter criminals as well as assist investigations. “Criminals often avoid areas where cameras are installed. New cameras should be set up quickly at all important points,” he said.
Sirajganj District Bar Association General Secretary Advocate Mohammad Humayun Kabir said technology-based monitoring, along with speedy trials in cases involving mugging and robbery, could help control crime more effectively.
Business leaders also stressed the need for a modern CCTV network to ensure a secure commercial environment.
Sirajganj Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Saidur Rahman Bacchu said, “There is no alternative to a CCTV network for building a safe and modern town. The business community is ready to provide all possible support if needed.”
District police, however, have assured that steps are being taken to restore surveillance facilities.
Additional Superintendent of Police Nazran Rouf said an initiative has been taken to install modern technology-based CCTV cameras across Sirajganj.
Additional District Administrator and Sirajganj municipality administrator Shahadat Hossain said the district administration, police and municipality were working together to rebuild the old CCTV network and install new cameras.
Locals now want the initiative to move beyond assurances and be implemented quickly, saying a safe town requires not only police patrols but also effective use of modern technology.
The key question for Sirajganj residents remains when the new CCTV network will become operational. A swift answer, they say, would restore public confidence and put additional pressure on criminals.
