Public transport shifting from forensic to real-time video surveillance

Recent research has shown that more than 85 per cent of transport networks across Western Europe are set to install internet protocol (IP) cameras instead of analogue CCTV technology, to increase the level of safety for passengers and staff.

The successful deployment of network camera technology was highlighted at Canary Wharf Station where IP video surveillance helped facilitate 24-hour rail operations and improve passenger safety.

The movement towards IP video surveillance is helping operators use real-time analytics to enhance decision making, including common platform changes to more infrequent critical scenarios (responses to a security threat or emergency). For example, machine learning technology identifies what is ‘normal’ activity within a scene, automatically creating an alert if ‘abnormal’ activity is recognised.

However, the UK has struggled to keep pace with the technological developments. In the Axis Communications survey, 97.3 per cent of respondents said they had some degree of video surveillance installed, 66 per cent cited other priorities, funding difficulties or no clear business case as the main barriers for not investing in more innovative IP technology. Interestingly, approximately 75 per cent of those who responded with no clear business case relied on outdated analogue technology to meet their surveillance needs.

Lucas Young, Business Development Manager, Transportation, Axis Communications stated: “The perceived lack of a business case highlights that many transport operators are unaware of the security and efficiency benefits real-time video surveillance can offer. To respond to security events as and when they happen; a proactive rather than reactive approach is required. That isn’t possible with legacy CCTV equipment.

“When analysing security footage in real time with advanced IP technology, operators are faced with hundreds of live feeds. This may seem daunting, but automated alerts can assist in managing the increased amount of data real-time video creates, helping to identify potential threats as they happen, preventing them from becoming security incidents.”

Lucas Young continued: “While the benefits of connecting once offline technologies to a network creates an array of benefits for transport networks, it is also important to note that all devices connected to the internet are potentially vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Cyber-security is a huge issue for the transport industry and could prove a costly oversight if technology is not implemented correctly. We aim to protect our transport networks not only from physical threats, but also online ones.”