In various places in Ankodia village, a network of 26 CCTV cameras has been set up by the Gram Panchayat. This has been done to take care of security and vigilance against theft. But now the same setup helps them to keep a watch on violations of Covid guidelines.
During the Corona period, the Village Sarpanch and the Panchayat started using this network to ensure compliance with the guidelines by the villagers including wearing a mask. In many villages of the state, such a network is established. For corona surveillance, Ankodia has charted a new direction of its use.
Expressing the feeling that their CCTV camera network has been a blessing in disguise, the village sarpanch said, their original intention was to keep an eye on incidents like theft. Now in such a situation, this facility is used by them to keep an eye on those who violate social distancing and other rules.
For the first time if someone is found without the mask then they are warned and fined if it is repeated. If crowds appear to have gathered, they are also instructed to disperse. Not just this but also the ones who waste water are gradually increasingly fined after the first warning with the help of this network. The fine payment is not denied by anyone as receipts are given to such people and also added to their tax amount.
The public broadcasting facility is also made available at the location of each camera so that in case of any breach, an immediate warning can be given. A register of fines is also maintained by the panchayat.
Corona is an unforeseen calamity. People are using different ways to deal with the pandemic, to provide help for the government. To fight the virus and create awareness in people Ankodia gram panchayat has shown a new dimension.
