Punjab approves Rs5b 'Safe Jail Project'

The Punjab government has greenlit a landmark Rs5 billion "Safe Jail Project" aimed at transforming prison security and oversight across the province through the deployment of advanced surveillance and digital systems.

The project, approved in a meeting chaired by Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi, will introduce cutting-edge technology in correctional facilities to curb illegal activities, monitor inmate and staff movements, and improve institutional transparency.

Under the initiative, a total of 12,071 surveillance cameras equipped with artificial intelligence–powered facial and vehicle recognition capabilities will be installed.

In addition, 2,266 public address systems and panic buttons, 369 body cameras, 656 walkie-talkie sets, 41 full-body scanners, and 41 under-vehicle surveillance systems will be deployed across various jails in Punjab.

Officials confirmed that the National Radio & Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC) will be responsible for the procurement and installation of all equipment, with a formal agreement expected to be signed within the month.

The surveillance network will comprehensively cover all key areas inside and outside prison premises - including entry and exit points, barracks, kitchens, hospitals, libraries, administrative offices, and jammer zones. Each facility will be integrated with a visitor management system to log and monitor all external contacts.

The first phase of the project, which focuses on high-security and central jails, is expected to be completed by December 2025.