The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at key transportation points over the next two years.
The key transportation points are interchanges, bus stops, freight yards, and taxi parks.
This is contained in the recently released Lagos State Transport Policy, which outlines a series of actions adopted by the government to tackle the city’s interrelated mobility challenges.
Section 4.5 of the policy highlights the increased use of CCTV cameras at key transportation points across the state.
“Install CCTV at all transport interchanges, stations/bus stops/taxi ranks, at freight yards and aboard vehicles; and in the vicinity of interchanges,” part of Table 5.1.15.2 Increased Use of CCTV, read.
In addition, the transport policy highlights the pivotal role of CCTV cameras in complementing the proposed modern Traffic Control Centre (TCC).
According to the policy, these cameras will enable Automatic Incident Detection (AID), significantly reducing incident response times and enhancing the overall efficiency of traffic management.
Data collected from CCTV footage will be instrumental in facilitating the development and implementation of effective traffic management plans as needed.
The enhanced Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), supported by the strategic deployment of CCTV, aim to create a more responsive and adaptive traffic management system in Lagos.
This system will improve the commuter experience, reduce travel times, and enhance road safety across the state, making Lagos a model for urban transportation management.
Regarding the operation of these CCTV cameras and similar tools, the policy notes that the Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Police, will establish the Lagos Transport Police (LTP) within two years.
This new unit will play a critical role in enhancing the security and efficiency of Lagos’ transportation system.
The Lagos Transport Police will be responsible not only for monitoring and safeguarding transport facilities, equipment, and infrastructure (including those under construction) but also for establishing a central control centre for overseeing the CCTV network.
