• High Crime Rates in Urban Areas: Cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Khulna face issues like theft, mugging, vandalism, and harassment. CCTV acts as a visible deterrent.

• Police & RAB Surveillance: Law enforcement agencies increasingly rely on CCTV networks to monitor public spaces, track criminals, and investigate incidents (e.g., traffic violations, terrorist threats, kidnappings).

2. Traffic Management & Road Safety

• Chaotic Traffic Conditions: Bangladesh has severe traffic congestion and frequent accidents. CCTV helps traffic police monitor junctions, detect rule-breakers (e.g., signal jumping, illegal parking), and manage flow.

• Evidence for Accidents: Footage is used to determine fault in accidents and settle legal/insurance claims.

3. Terrorism & Political Stability

• Threat of Extremism: Past attacks (e.g., Holey Artisan Bakery attack in 2016) highlighted the need for surveillance in public venues, hotels, malls, and diplomatic zones.

• Political Rallies & Public Gatherings: CCTV helps authorities maintain order during protests and events to prevent violence.

4. Business & Commercial Security

• Retail & Shops: Prevents shoplifting, employee theft, and fraud.

• Banks & Financial Institutions: Mandatory for ATM security, transaction verification, and robbery prevention.

• Industries & Factories: Protects assets, monitors worker safety, and prevents sabotage or unauthorized access.

5. Home & Residential Safety

• Gated Communities & Apartments: Multi-story buildings and housing complexes use CCTV to monitor entrances, parking, and common areas.

• Domestic Security: Middle and upper-class families install cameras to guard against burglary, monitor domestic staff, and keep an eye on children/elderly.

6. Government & Institutional Use

• Government Offices: Ensures security and deters corruption (e.g., monitoring service delivery).

• Educational Institutions: Schools and universities use CCTV to prevent bullying, unauthorized entry, and ensure student safety.

• Hospitals: Protects medical equipment, monitors patient safety, and prevents theft.

7. Technological & Infrastructural Growth

• Digital Bangladesh Vision: Government initiatives promote tech adoption, including surveillance infrastructure.

• Affordable Technology: Prices of cameras and recording systems have dropped, making them accessible to more people.

• Internet Penetration: Rise of IP cameras and remote monitoring via smartphones.

8. Legal & Insurance Purposes

• Evidence in Court: CCTV footage is increasingly used as evidence in criminal and civil cases.

• Insurance Claims: Businesses and homeowners use footage to support claims for theft, fire, or damage.

Challenges & Criticisms:

• Privacy Concerns: Lack of comprehensive data protection laws raises worries about misuse.

• Power Outages: Unreliable electricity supply can disrupt surveillance.

• Maintenance & Skill Gaps: Poor upkeep and lack of technical expertise can render systems ineffective.

Conclusion:

In Bangladesh, CCTV is no longer a luxury but a necessity—driven by rising insecurity, urban density, and the need for accountability in both public and private sectors. While it significantly enhances security and operational efficiency, balancing surveillance with privacy rights and improving technical infrastructure remain ongoing challenges.