Catchin' Crooks on Wheels: Cameras and Security Teams in Buses, Trains, and Stations
Enhanced Surveillance: Installation of Additional CCTV Systems in Public Transportation Vehicles and Stations - Increased Surveillance in Public Transportation and Stations through Additional CCTVs
Transportation systems are going all in on cameras and security teams to nip crime in the bud. A study by the German Press Agency polled major transport associations and selected companies, revealing that the majority of urban buses, trams, and S-Bahn and regional trains are already equipped with security cameras.
Camera-Equipped Trains
According to the NRW associations for public passenger transport on rails, about 90% of all S-Bahn and regional trains are already bedecked with video technology. This technology will be incorporated into all vehicles over time through retrofitting, allowing for cloud-based storage options for quick data access. AI is also under investigation to enable early detection of security issues in trains through AI-assisted analysis.
Bodycams for Security Teams
Security teams are usually armed with body cameras, often patrolling in pairs in trains and stations, and accompanying controllers. While there's no mandatory requirement for train staff to wear body cameras, some companies in the rail sector provide them on a voluntary basis for employee use or testing.
The recording area of cameras in buses is expanding, too. For instance, the Aachener Verkehrsunternehmen Aseag has replaced only entrance area coverage with cameras in new buses, capturing the entire interior. Düsseldorf's Rheinbahn has nearly all buses kitted out with cameras, with city and streetcar coverage at 70%. New vehicles typically come equipped with video equipment from the factory.
Testing Bodycams and Video Tech
Pilot projects involving bodycams and video technology are popping up across the Rhineland region. The Cologne transport company (KVB) has 65 body cameras, following a successful pilot project, with 20 of them deployed in "ticket inspection" and "security and service" areas in Düsseldorf's Rheinbahn.
Sometimes, just the mere mention of turning on the body camera is enough to alter behavior and de-escalate conflict situations, reducing assaults and protecting both employees and passengers. Passengers often have questions about continuous filming, and security teams clarify the conditions for body camera use, ensuring a positive perception.
Nighttime Surveillance and Response
Dortmund's DSW21 Transit Authority has stationed security staff in a "Security Workplace" to manage all security-related incidents in the tram system and coordinate necessary measures, including fires and video-based object protection. This initiative is slated to begin mid-year.
Rise in Criminal Activities
Incidents against rail personnel in North Rhine-Westphalia have seen a marked increase. In 2021, there were over 1,300 threats on trains, and physical injuries increased from 823 to 905 cases, with most attacks targeting control and security personnel.
Video surveillance, especially in smaller and medium-sized train stations, has been expanded to maintain security. A state program for 100 train stations is nearing completion, with the last three stations expected to be equipped this year.
In the interest of early detection and response to dangerous situations, video technology is proving its worth as a crucial tool in preserving the safety and security of public transportation systems.
Community aid programs could be implemented to help train and support security personnel in their roles, providing them with tools and resources to handle the recent rise in criminal activities in transportation systems. The increasing use of technology in transportation, such as cameras and AI, could potentially be leveraged for vocational training programs, offering opportunities for individuals to learn about and work with these systems in the industry, potentially leading to careers in finance or technology sectors related to transportation security.
