České dráhy is rolling out a new CCTV system from Herman

Every day, CityElefant commuter trains carry thousands of passengers. Alongside comfort and reliability, increasing emphasis is therefore being placed on safety and protecting the trains from vandalism.

České dráhy has therefore launched an extensive modernisation of the CCTV systems in its 471 CityElefant series trains. The project aims to help protect passengers, speed up the resolution of incidents and contribute to reducing damage caused by vandalism. Herman is also involved in the supply of the technology.

Modern surveillance for modern transport

Once completed, all 55 CityElefant trainsets will be equipped with the new CCTV system. Each train will provide a comprehensive overview of what is happening both inside and around the train thanks to a network of 42 cameras positioned inside and outside the carriages. The modernisation, worth nearly 88 million crowns, is due to be completed by autumn 2027.

The camera footage will assist in investigating incidents, protecting passengers and cooperating with the security services. Another key benefit is the ability to review incidents retrospectively and provide more effective protection of the operator’s assets.

Vandalism causes millions in damage to transport operators every year

Cameras that monitor parked trains too

A key part of the system is the protection of trains even when they are not in regular service. External cameras remain active even whilst a train is parked, and the system can detect attempts to damage or cover them. This enables a significantly faster response to suspicious incidents.

It is precisely this combination of monitoring, diagnostics and remote surveillance that represents an important step in the long-term fight against vandalism on the railways. The installation of the cameras forms part of the ‘Together for Clean Trains’ programme, which České dráhy is implementing in collaboration with the Central Bohemian Region and the City of Prague.

Herman technology in a demanding railway environment

Railway operations require exceptionally reliable solutions. CCTV systems must operate over the long term in demanding conditions, withstanding vibrations, continuous operation and high demands on the storage and management of recordings.

The EPIS 5.1AKS CCTV system, developed in Modřice near Brno, forms part of the modernisation of the CityElefant trainsets

The technologies developed by Herman are designed specifically for transport applications such as these, where stability, a long service life and reliable operation are crucial. Their deployment on CityElefant trains is yet another example of the use of modern security technologies in everyday public transport.

The modernisation of the CCTV systems on CityElefant trains has also attracted attention outside the railway sector. Video: 42 new cameras per train – Seznam Zprávy