Live CCTV goes on trial in bid to beat travel violence
LIVE screening of CCTV on London's buses was launched today in an attempt to help police improve security on public transport.
Boris Johnson announced there would be a six-month trial of the hi-tech system on one of the most problematic bus routes in the capital. Evening Standard has been asked not to reveal the north London route in order not to alter passenger behaviour.
The technology pioneered by the American military allows CCTV footage to be beamed via secure mobile networks from the buses to the central police and bus control room.
Transport for London officials and police can see what was happening on the top deck of buses, helping them to clamp down on anti-social behaviour.
They would be able to respond quickly to radio calls for assistance from drivers.
Mr Johnson said: "I want our public transport to become world renowned for its safety and I am determined to banish the sad minority of hoodlums and trouble makers that have blighted our buses."