Maharashtra Transport Department Distributes 600 Body Cameras to RTOs
The Maharashtra Transport Department has distributed around 600 body cameras to Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) across Maharashtra, allowing enforcement proceedings involving motorists and transport officials to be video-recorded.
Under the initiative, each RTO office across the state has received approximately 10 body cameras. The devices will be deployed by Motor Vehicle Inspectors during roadside checks, vehicle inspections, licence and permit-related enforcement actions, and other official duties.
The body cameras are also intended for use during practical Marathi language proficiency tests currently being administered for autorickshaw and taxi drivers. Transport officials stated that the video recordings will create an objective, documented record of official proceedings and assist in resolving disputes or complaints arising during interactions.
A senior RTO officer confirmed that the cameras were distributed recently, following the issuance of a formal procedure governing their operational use on August 18. Prior to the rollout, Motor Vehicle Inspectors underwent operational training conducted by employees of SP Infotech around 10 to 15 days ago. The training sessions covered starting recordings, changing batteries, and securely storing recorded video footage.
The distributed body cameras are equipped with a touchscreen display and dual front and rear cameras providing a 140-degree rotating view. The units feature built-in 4G network connectivity with GPS support, enabling live video streaming, instant playback, Bluetooth connectivity, one-touch recording, and video compression support.
Each device provides up to 12 hours of continuous recording on a single battery backup, with built-in storage options ranging from 32 GB to 512 GB. The cameras are waterproof, dustproof, and built to withstand drops from heights of up to two metres. For night operations, the devices feature infrared night vision capable of capturing video up to a distance of 10 metres.
The introduction of the equipment comes as transport officials regularly conduct roadside regulatory checks and enforcement drives. Transport authorities noted that having video documentation will help establish factual accounts during conflicting claims and improve transparency and accountability for both officials and motorists across the state.
