Cameras are rolling on more than 630 BC Transit buses, including eight in Squamish.
Between four and eight cameras are used on each bus to record inside and outside the vehicle, capturing video and audio, BC Transit announced on Jan. 22.
“Having CCTV cameras on board will help reassure passengers that taking public transportation is a safe option no matter where you live,” François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, said in a press release.
The new addition to BC Transit’s equipment is part of a $11-million upgrade to technology for the province-wide fleet. The company also plans to add automatic passenger counters and NextRide to provide up-to-date transit information for trip planning. BC Transit has also trained bus drivers on diffusing situations and created partnerships with first responders.
Camera first joined passengers on BC Transit buses for a pilot project in 2015. Since then, the footage — which is stored for seven days — helped with 3,500 BC Transit investigations, including 360 police investigations.
“We place the highest priority on safety. The installation of CCTV cameras demonstrates our commitment to safety to our staff and customers,” BC Transit CEO and President Erinn Pinkerton said in the press release. “Anything that can deter incidents or assist in investigations is a welcome enhancement for our service.”
More CCTV cameras will be added as buses are upgraded.
