The Islamabad Safe City Project, initially launched in 2016 for Rs6 billion, is set for a major overhaul to replace outdated technology and expand its surveillance capabilities. The existing system, which currently covers 13 police stations, will be upgraded and expanded to cover 28 police stations, with a total budget of Rs7.4 billion.
Project Budget and Breakdown
The project’s approved budget is allocated across several key areas to ensure the successful implementation of the new system. The breakdown is as follows:
- Technology Cost: Rs7.23 billion
- Staff Salaries: Rs13.6 million
- Utilities Expenses: Rs31.164 million
- Consultancy: Rs144.68 million
- ISP Connectivity: Rs1.4 million
- Contingency: Rs74.25 million
Addressing Outdated Technology
The primary reason for the upgrade is that the existing system is nearing the end of its life. About 80% of the technology is outdated, leading to fragmentation and frequent failures. The new project aims to replace or upgrade several critical components:
- Video Management System: The current system is fragmented and uses multiple outdated technologies. It will be replaced with a unified system to ensure seamless integration across all cameras, improving surveillance and streamlining operations.
- ANPR and Facial Recognition: The Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system has partial functionality with existing cameras but lacks proper violation detection and integration. The facial recognition system is also outdated and often malfunctions, lacking real-time blacklisting capabilities. Both will be replaced with advanced, integrated systems for faster identification and enforcement.
- Data Centre and Storage: The current data center and storage systems are reaching their end of life, with frequent failures. The upgrade will include a complete replacement of the data center’s infrastructure, including cooling units, power backups, and critical server hardware, to prevent disruptions and ensure data integrity.
- Backup Site: A major vulnerability of the existing system is the lack of a backup site. The new plan includes establishing a backup site in the Diplomatic Enclave to ensure business continuity and data recovery in the event of a system failure.
Expanded Surveillance and New Features
The expansion will add 3,187 new cameras with higher technical specifications to the Safe City network. These cameras will be installed at a variety of locations to improve public safety and security:
- High-value premises
- Entry and exit points
- High-crime areas
- Protest and public gathering spots
- Traffic choke points
The new cameras will enable law enforcement to conduct real-time traffic monitoring, track suspected vehicles, and enhance crisis management. The system is also designed to help monitor public gatherings to mitigate terrorism risks and reduce emergency response times.
To oversee the project’s implementation, a Project Implementation and Management Unit (PIMU) will be established at the Central Police Office. This unit will be supervised by the Inspector General of Police and will include a team of technical staff to ensure a successful transition to the new, upgraded system.
