Kyrgyzstan to install up to 20,000 surveillance cameras in nationwide safety drive

Kyrgyzstan plans to expand its nationwide video surveillance system, with up to 20,000 cameras set to be installed, President Sadyr Zhaparov has announced.

The initiative was revealed during a meeting with residents of Nookat district in the Osh region, amid growing public concern over road safety, particularly near schools.

Residents highlighted a rise in traffic accidents, including incidents involving children. One resident noted that three students had recently been hit near a school, despite improvements in road infrastructure.

Gradual rollout of surveillance system

President Zhaparov said the expansion of the video monitoring system would be implemented in stages, with the aim of improving public safety nationwide.

“We will gradually achieve this goal,” he said, emphasising that the system forms part of broader efforts to create a safer environment.

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According to authorities, between 5,000 and 6,000 cameras have already been installed across the country. First Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Adylbek Biybosunov confirmed that around 3,000 of these are currently operational.

Focus on schools and high-risk areas

An additional 3,000 cameras are expected to be installed within the next six weeks using presidential funding. The government has prioritised placing surveillance equipment near schools and other high-risk areas to reduce accidents and improve monitoring of traffic behaviour.

Kyrgyzstan’s “Safe City” initiative 

Kyrgyzstan has also taken steps to strengthen the institutional framework of its “Safe City” initiative, aimed at improving coordination and efficiency.

In September 2024, President Zhaparov signed a decree transferring full oversight of the system to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, designating it as the lead agency responsible for implementation and operation.

Under the reform, the automated “Safe City” system was transferred from the Ministry of Digital Development, while the state enterprise Infocom was retained as the technical operator. The changes were designed to streamline management, improve integration with law enforcement, and ensure more effective use of surveillance data.

Authorities say the updated framework will support the long-term development of the system, enhance road safety, and strengthen the overall capacity of public security institutions.

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Kyrgyzstan national security Public Safety road accidents