The South Dinajpur district sports association has installed CCTV cameras at the Balurghat stadium to ensure the safety of players during sports events and prevent unsocial activities on the premises.

Amitabha Ghosh, the secretary of the association, said it had spent around Rs 60,000 to install the CCTVs.

“We have installed 13 CCTV cameras so far and some more cameras will be put up in due course. The decision was taken at the executive committee meeting of the association. The initiative was taken to enhance surveillance in and around the stadium,” said Ghosh.

Sources in the association said the ground, the galleries, and the entry and exit points had been covered under the CCTVs surveillance.

“There were reports that during evening and night hours, some youths, including criminals, were entering the stadium to consume alcohol and indulge in anti-social activities. From now on, the movement of all those who enter the stadium can be tracked and such nuisance can be avoided,” said a
source.

The digital surveillance will also help ensure the security of players. “Different sports events are held at the stadium round the year. Both male and female players come here to participate in events. Now that we have the CCTVs, we can ensure the safety of players in the stadium,” said a member of the association.

Senior police officers have appreciated the decision.

“CCTV surveillance helps in curbing crimes. Also, if any incident happens, the footage helps the police in the investigation. The stadium is a large area and having it under constant surveillance is definitely a good move,” South Dinajpur superintendent of police Chinmay Mittal said.