Do the cameras in Rhodes Park actually work?
KENSINGTON – CCTV cameras not functioning properly.
It’s been over a month since the Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo unveiled the first closed circuit television monitoring system in Kensington’s Rhodes Park.
The community has voiced their concern and asked if the cameras are actually working and making an impact on safety in the park.
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo spokesperson Jenny Moodley said, “The pilot installation saw four cameras being installed at Rhodes Park as part of the testing phase. There is, however, a need to link the cameras to a reliable monitoring system for Rhodes Park, which will be undertaken off site.
“There will be a meeting with 7 Arrows Security to discuss how they can assist in the live monitoring of the cameras. City Parks and Zoo have appointed Crebus, to manage the project,” said Moodley.
She explained that Crebus is a private sector business solutions company.
“Crebus has advised [us] that they have encountered problems and that the current system has not been operating at full capacity. Crebus is currently sorting out the wireless technology as well as the current monitoring from a centralised control centre. This will ensure that the system is enabled to operate at its full functional capacity,” said Moodley.
She added that the installation doesn’t cost the ratepayers of the city a cent because the project is solely funded by a donor.
The cameras are mounted on high poles to prevent vandalism and are integrated to ensure that every camera is monitored by another camera. The system is wireless and will be monitored from a centrally controlled security room. Security officials are being trained to detect suspicious activity without compromising the rights of persons to enjoy the City’s public space.
“We would like to invite businesses to support the initiative, said Moodley.
The pilot initiative is sponsored by the Development Bank of South Africa and facilitated by Crebus.
Details: Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo New Business Development General Manager: Louise Gordon 011 712 6600; email lgordon@jhbcityparks.com
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