Portalegre City Council has approved a plan to install a video surveillance system in busy areas of the city. The fact that the decision was same shows that there was strong support for the project.
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Portalegre Approves Installation Of CCTV Cameras
Mayor Fermelinda Carvalho announced the plan last week. She explained that the cameras will be placed in Jardim da Corredoura, Praça da República, and Rua do Comércio. These are some of the busiest parts of Portalegre.
Carvalho said during her announcement:
People have to feel safe in their city
Safe Public Spaces
The city council hopes this project will make Portalegre safer for everyone. While the city is not known for high crime rates bur the cameras are seen as a precaution. They are expected to help prevent crime and improve the overall feeling of safety.
She said:
I think it’s important to implement the video surveillance system, people have to feel safe in their city
Many residents support the idea. A local resident said:
It’s a good move. Places like Praça da República are always crowded. Cameras will help keep things under control
The mayor acknowledged that the project would require a significant financial investment. She did not reveal the exact cost but described it as a large investment.
The city must finalize a protocol with the Public Security Police (PSP) before the cameras can be installed. This agreement will outline the responsibilities of both parties. The project will need approval from the Ministry of Internal Administration then.
The mayor did not provide a date for when the cameras will be placed. She said that the city is committed to working with all necessary partners to move the project forward.
Privacy Concerns For Residents
CCTV systems can improve safety but they also raise privacy concerns. Some residents worry about how the data will be used. Others want reassurance that the cameras will not invade their personal privacy.
Under Portuguese law, strict rules govern the use of surveillance cameras. The footage can only be used for public safety purposes. This helps ensure that the system will not be misused.
The community has had mixed reactions to the plan. Many people welcome the cameras as a way to make Portalegre safer. Others are less convinced.
More cities in Portugal are using CCTV systems to improve safety. These systems have helped reduce crime in other places. Portalegre hopes to see similar results.
This city will need to address concerns and ensure proper management of the cameras for the system to succeed. Regular maintenance and clear rules will be essential.
The mayor is confident the project will benefit the city. Carvalho said:
This is about investing in our future. We want people to feel safe when they walk, shop, or relax in Portalegre.
The next step is signing the protocol with the PSP. After that, the city will work with the Ministry of Internal Administration to get the necessary licenses.
More details, including the cost and timeline are expected in the coming months. For now, the approval of the project is a positive step for Portalegre.
The city hopes the CCTV system will enhance safety and bring peace of mind to its residents with the right planning and collaboration. This project will also inspire other towns in Portugal to adopt similar measures.
Portalegre is taking a big step towards modernizing its safety efforts. People in the local community are excited to see how this project will make their daily lives better.
