Western Railway Pilots Body Cameras for Ticket Checkers in Mumbai Central
Western Railway’s Mumbai Central division is introducing body-worn cameras for ticket checkers as part of a new pilot project aimed at settling disputes with passengers through recorded evidence.
The initiative comes in response to recurring incidents of arguments, clashes, and physical assaults during ticket-checking drives. Under the pilot programme, the division will procure 15 body cameras and 30 specially designed jackets, with operations aboard air-conditioned (AC) local trains serving as a primary area of focus.
The body cameras are intended to provide an objective record of encounters during ticket inspections, particularly when interactions escalate into arguments or physical confrontations. Railway authorities will be able to review the footage to determine the exact sequence of events rather than relying solely on conflicting statements from passengers or ticket-checking personnel.
Footage captured by the cameras will assist in drafting reports and identifying individuals responsible for misconduct or assault. Officials noted that the recordings will also promote greater accountability among ticket checkers regarding their conduct toward commuters.
The measure is being rolled out under Western Railway’s ‘Namaste Campaign’, which is designed to ensure ticket inspections remain courteous, professional, and accountable while enforcing compliance with travel rules.
The body cameras will utilise SD-card-based storage and integrated microphones to capture audio and video footage throughout duty shifts. The recorded data will be periodically reviewed and analysed, with particular attention given to cases involving disputes or altercations.
Ticket-checking staff will wear the cameras mounted on the front of newly designed work jackets made from quick-drying microfibre fabric. The jackets feature specific pockets and compartments tailored to carry Hand Held Terminals (HHTs), Electronic Fare Ticket (EFT) machines, identity cards, name badges, and other necessary gear, making it easier for staff to manage equipment during long shifts while remaining clearly identifiable to the public.
“The use of body cameras and special jackets will make ticket-checking drives safer, transparent and professional. It will help strengthen passenger confidence while improving the safety and accountability of ticket-checking staff. Based on the outcome of the pilot project, a decision can be taken on expanding the system,” said Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway.
Following the assessment of the pilot on AC locals and selected operations, railway officials may consider expanding the body-worn camera system to additional ticket-checking staff across the network.
