Statewide 4G-Based Surveillance System for Telangana Elections 2024

objective:

The Telangana Legislative Assembly Elections of 2023–24 demanded a reliable, real-time surveillance infrastructure to oversee polling stations, counting rooms, EVM strong rooms, check posts, and key administrative offices across 16 districts. Brihaspathi Technologies was tasked with designing and deploying a 4G IP-based surveillance and control system. The core objective was to create a secured monitoring framework that supported live observation, data recording, and remote access, ultimately contributing to fair and transparent elections.

20,000+

Cameras Installed

Challenges :

  1. 1 Widespread Deployment Across Remote Areas:Coordinating the installation of over 20,000 surveillance cameras across multiple polling stations, many in geographically and infrastructurally challenging locations, required detailed logistical planning.
  2. 2 Maintaining Network Stability and Real-Time Data Transmission: Connectivity in remote areas and high-traffic zones often fluctuated, making consistent video transmission difficult.
  3. 3 Environmental and Infrastructure Barriers:Outdoor cameras were subject to adverse weather and exposure risks, requiring protective housings and stable power supplies.
  4. 4 High-Pressure Deadlines: All installations and control room setups had to be completed within a tight election timeline without disturbing other pre-poll activities.
  5. 4 Technical Glitches and Power Interruptions:Unanticipated power losses and connectivity drops had to be addressed quickly to avoid any lapses in coverage

Solutions :

  1. 1 1. 4G IP-Based Surveillance Network:
    Brihaspathi Technologies deployed over 20,000 4G-enabled IP bullet cameras, capable of real-time monitoring and high-resolution video capture. Cameras were positioned at polling booths, counting areas, check posts, and strong rooms.
  2. 2 2. Robust Planning and Site Surveys:
    Prior to installation, each site was surveyed for signal strength, power availability, blind spots, and network compatibility. Camera positions were carefully mapped to cover voter lines, ballot handling, and entry/exit points.
  3. 3 3. Power Backup and Weather-Resistant Systems:
    Cameras were enclosed in protective housings and backed by UPS units or solar options where needed. Cable routing and mounting were planned to reduce tampering risks.
  4. 4 4. Secure Storage and Controlled Access:
    Video feeds were encrypted and stored on restricted-access servers, maintaining chain-of-custody integrity for electoral footage.
  5. 5 5. Integrated Monitoring with TV Displays and MIS:
    Centralized control rooms were set up in DEO/CEO offices with real-time access via TV monitors. A Management Information System (MIS) enabled quick analysis, reporting, and tracking.
  6. 6 6. Contingency Planning and Support Teams
    Backup connectivity solutions, routine checks, and dedicated troubleshooting teams were deployed to handle any failure swiftly.

RESULTS:

Complete Electoral Monitoring Coverage:
- Cameras covered polling booths, strong rooms, counting halls, and check posts, reducing the likelihood of malpractice and supporting on-the-spot response.

Real-Time Visibility and Control:
- Election officers were able to monitor multiple locations remotely and respond to issues without delay.

Data Reliability and Tamper Resistance:
-Encrypted storage and continuous recording helped in incident verification and legal review if needed.

Efficiency in Decision Making:
- MIS reports provided real-time insights into polling station status, helping higher authorities manage the election day better.