Sindh Govt Expands AI Surveillance in Karachi
The Karachi Safe City Project is entering an advanced phase as the Sindh government accelerates its efforts to create an AI-driven urban safety network. Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has approved Phase II, directing swift execution to ensure timely completion.
Review Meeting at CM House
The decision came during a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister at CM House Karachi. The session was attended by senior officials, including Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, IGP Ghulam Nabi Memon, and Safe City DG Asif Aijaz Shaikh, among others.
Phase I Progress Overview
Officials informed the CM that Phase I of the Karachi Safe City Project, launched on May 31, 2024, is progressing smoothly and is on track for completion by November 30, 2025. This phase primarily focuses on setting up the core surveillance and response infrastructure.
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AI-Enabled Security Network
Under Phase I, the city has witnessed the installation of high-resolution CCTV cameras, poles, POP sites, servers, and large-capacity data storage systems. The main command and control centres have already been established and integrated with law enforcement databases.
Smart Monitoring and Analytics
The integrated system will feature advanced AI analytics, including facial recognition, vehicle tracking, and real-time incident detection. These technologies aim to enhance Karachi’s crime prevention, traffic regulation, and rapid response capabilities.
Deployment of Emergency Response Units
To improve efficiency, the Home Department confirmed that 12 Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) are fully active and connected with the main command centre. This allows officers to reach critical locations faster and respond to emergencies in real time.
Approval of Phase II Expansion Plan
During the session, CM Murad Ali Shah approved the Phase II expansion, which extends surveillance to Karachi’s major districts — including South, East, and Malir — focusing on both commercial centres and high-risk areas like DHA and Saddar.
Installation of Thousands of New Cameras
The second phase will see the addition of 4,750 new cameras and the upgrade of 1,750 existing ones. Additionally, 3,000 intelligent traffic cameras will be installed under the Traffic Accident and Control System (TRACS) to support e-Challan operations.
Enhanced Command and Control Network
The Central Police Office (CPO) command centre will be upgraded to manage feeds from over 6,000 cameras. Two new regional control centres will also be established — one at the South DIG office and another at Civic Centre Karachi.
Cutting-Edge Surveillance Technology
The upgraded surveillance system will include computer-aided dispatch (CAD), a modern call centre, and 3D visualization dashboards. AI-powered analytics tools like AcuSeek will further enable predictive policing and real-time decision-making by city authorities.
Integration with National Databases
The CM directed the Safe City Authority to establish secure network connectivity to ensure uninterrupted data transmission. The surveillance grid will be integrated with NADRA, vehicle registration, and criminal record databases to improve coordination.
Ensuring Smart Urban Governance
CM Murad Ali Shah emphasized that the Karachi Safe City Project is not just a surveillance initiative but a step toward smart urban governance. He reiterated that quality standards and deadlines would not be compromised under any circumstances.
Budget and Resource Allocation
The meeting also discussed budget allocations, staffing, and operational logistics for Phase II. The CM instructed the Finance and Home Departments to finalize the funding model and remove any administrative hurdles to ensure smooth implementation.
Karachi’s Economic and Strategic Importance
Highlighting the city’s role as Pakistan’s economic hub, CM Murad stated, “Karachi is the engine of our national economy. Ensuring its safety and efficiency is essential for Pakistan’s growth and stability.”
A Comprehensive Security Vision
The Karachi Safe City Project represents a holistic approach to security — combining AI technology, data analytics, and real-time communication to build a safer, smarter urban environment for over 20 million residents.
Accountability and Oversight Measures
Concluding the session, the CM directed all departments to submit monthly progress reports to monitor implementation. He also stressed empowering the Safe City Authority with operational autonomy to coordinate effectively with law enforcement agencies.
A Step Toward a Safer Future
Once fully operational, the Karachi Safe City network will serve as a model for smart policing in Pakistan. With AI-powered surveillance and efficient response systems, it will significantly reduce crime rates and enhance public trust in digital governance.
👉 Official Karachi Safe City Authority Website
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