After the recent terror attacks in the country, Lokhandwala resident Sanjay Tahillani was hesitant to venture out in crowded areas. But since the last few days, the businessman has been throwing caution to the wind, and making a beeline for his favourite shopping destination — Lokhandwala market in Andheri.

Like Tahillani, several other shoppers now feel secure when they walk down the crowded market road, thanks to the recently installed CCTV cameras.

The Oshiwara police with the help of Lokhandwala Vyapari Mandal and Clearvision have installed 24 CCTV cameras and public address system inside Lokhandwala main market. The cameras are placed at three major spot — McDonald’s, High Point and near HDFC Bank

“With the help of the cameras the officials will be able to detect and prevent any untoward incidents. Apart from the terror threats, the CCTV cameras will also help reduce promiscuous behaviour and eve-teasing,” said Tahillani.

Kiran Sonone, senior inspector, Oshiwara police station, said that the main aim of installing the cameras was to keep a check on anti-social elements. “

“Every day, around 20,000 people come to the market either to shop or work on daily basis. Since the number of people visiting the area is so high, we thought it would be a good idea to install the CCTV cameras,” he said.

“The CCTV cameras capture around 400 metre area and have a 360 degree rotation. The cameras will be operational 24 hours and will be monitored from Lokhandwala police beat chowki. In case the official spots any unusual activity or any miscreant trying to cause trouble, he can use the public address system.”

According to Nizam Khan, president of the vyapari mandal, the CCTV cameras in the market will act as deterrent for people wanting to cause trouble. “Anybody with wrong intentions will think twice before coming to Lokhandwala market. The CCTV cameras will not only help reduce the general crime rate, but also keep a check on terror activities,” he added.

Understandably, regulars to the market area are relieved. “This is a very crowded market and anything can happen over here. But now thanks to the CCTV cameras we feel quite safe,” said Anil Parmar, a shopper.

 A jewellery store owners said that thanks to the CCTV cameras they saw a lot of crowd during Diwali. “Diwali is an important time for us, and people shopped without any fear this year. We hope that the peaceful atmosphere continues to prevail even in the future.”