AI camera project: Govt has not spent a single penny, claim that one camera costs Rs 35 lakh is wrong, says Keltron MD

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Keltron MD Narayana Murthy said that all steps in the AI ​​camera project are transparent. He denied former opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala's allegation that there was a mystery behind the installation of AI cameras across the state. Narayana Murthy informed that the amount initially estimated for the project was 235 crores and after negotiations, it was reduced to 232 crores.

"151 crores out of the amount earmarked for the project was given to the firm called SRIT as per subcontract. The balance was earmarked for sending challans and for Keltron's expenses. The government has not spent a penny so far," Narayana Murthy said.

Narayana Murthy, who praised the service of SRIT, also said that Keltron did not have any liability through this.

Keltron MD also denied the allegation that Rs 35 lakh was spent on one camera. "The claim that one camera costs Rs 35 lakh is wrong. A camera system costs only 9.5 lakhs. The total amount spent on cameras is Rs 74 crore. The rest was spent on technology, server room and interest," he added.

Earlier, former Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala said that he will not allow anyone to get involved in corruption in the name of the installation of AI cameras. He also claimed that he had all the documents. Chennithala also alleged that there was a mystery surrounding the installation of the cameras.