Hyderabad Women’s Hostel Safety Audit Explained: 30% CCTV Cameras Not Working, No Fire Exit Plans
HYDERABAD: Hyderabad Police have uncovered major safety lapses in women’s hostels across the city. More than 30 per cent of CCTV cameras were not working, and none of the inspected hostels had a fire exit plan.
The findings were announced on Friday under Suraksha Nivas 1.0, a part of Project Safe Stay. Hyderabad Police conducted the initiative in partnership with the Hyderabad City Security Council (HCSC).
Women Safety Wing Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Lavanya said 10 special teams, comprising 35 personnel, inspected 446 hostels over nine weeks. Nearly 97.5 per cent of the hostels had CCTV cameras. However, over 30 per cent of those cameras were non-functional.
The inspections revealed several other safety concerns. Only 43 per cent of the hostels had proper compound walls. Just 38.9 per cent had fire safety equipment, and none had a fire exit plan. Only 44 per cent displayed a valid Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) trade licence. The safety audit also found that 62 per cent of the hostels scored below 40, indicating poor safety standards.
Police call for mandatory registration
Police Commissioner Sajjanar said every women’s hostel and paying guest (PG) accommodation must register with the local police station.
He asked hostel operators to deploy security guards round the clock, monitor all entry and exit points, and adopt the Safe Bathrooms Concept to prevent accidents caused by structural defects. He also urged hostel owners to form an association to address common concerns.
GHMC reminds hostels about licensing rules
GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan said running a hostel comes under the “Trade” category and requires a municipal trade licence.
He said hostel operators must maintain updated records of all occupants. They must also complete background verification of staff and service providers, as required under police guidelines.
