Home Security Costs Surge with High-Tech Solutions in Delhi

The landscape of home security in New Delhi has transformed dramatically, as residents invest significantly in advanced technologies. What was once merely a sturdy lock has evolved into a complex array of systems, including infrared beams, face-recognition cameras, and electronic alarms. Many homeowners are now spending thousands on smart security solutions that provide live footage of their properties directly to their smartphones, while others opt for more affordable alternatives like dummy cameras that simulate security.

High-Tech Security Solutions Become Essential

For local businessman Murli Mani, the decision to install a smart alarm system was not just a luxury but a necessity. “I had to put in a system that not only sounds a loud ringing when someone tries to break the door but also sends a picture of whoever rings the doorbell straight to my phone,” he explained. This level of security allows him to manage access remotely, giving him peace of mind.

In areas like Navjiwan Vihar in south Delhi, residents are also taking extensive measures to enhance their security. Ruby Makhija, the secretary of the Resident Welfare Association (RWA), noted, “When we first installed floodlights, people broke them with stones. We had to place special guards to prevent that.” To ensure their safety, the community has implemented QR codes that guards must scan during patrols, adding another layer of accountability.

According to Atul Goyal from the United Residents Joint Action (URJA), a coalition representing over 2,500 RWAs, the security industry is aggressively promoting high-end solutions. “We are seeing systems with alarms directly connected with the local police station,” he stated. However, he acknowledged that not every family can afford these expenses, leading many communities to depend on traditional monitoring solutions.

Adoption of Advanced Technologies and Budget Alternatives

Security system providers in Delhi have adapted their approaches, offering comprehensive services that include site surveys, detailed planning, transparent quotations, and professional installation. One firm in Karol Bagh details a 10-step system that encompasses everything from creating a blueprint of the property to ongoing maintenance checks, ensuring that homeowners receive robust support.

In affluent areas like Vasant Kunj and Green Park, residents are increasingly turning to AI-based cameras. Amit Agarwal, a Vasant Kunj resident, shared that many homeowners are now using repurposed baby monitors as surveillance devices. “People assume elderly residents might struggle with new technology, but companies explain the systems very well,” he noted. This trend highlights the growing comfort with technology among various age groups.

For Lalit Kumar, a 68-year-old resident of Green Park, the introduction of face-recognition CCTV cameras is a game changer. “It’s not just about watching footage anymore; systems now recognise unfamiliar faces and sound an alert,” he said, noting that electronic entry systems have become common in many buildings.

As security measures become more sophisticated, some homes in west Delhi have established private “control rooms” equipped with screens displaying feeds from multiple CCTV cameras. “Security has become the new normal,” one resident remarked, pointing out that even household staff are often tasked with monitoring footage.

The rising demand for advanced security solutions has led to a significant increase in household expenses. Sangeeta Thukral, a member of the CR Park RWA, explained, “Earlier, people spent around ₹1,800 on good locks. Today, you can easily spend 10 times that amount just on upgraded locking or alarm systems.” This shift illustrates how essential security has become for many families.

In response to the high costs, a parallel market for budget security options has emerged. Fake CCTV cameras, available for as little as ₹200, are marketed as deterrents for potential intruders. Additionally, door-mounted alarms that sound when tampered with and infrared barriers that alert homeowners when someone crosses an invisible line at the gate are gaining popularity.

The evolving landscape of home security in New Delhi underscores a broader trend towards prioritizing safety in daily life. As technology advances and costs rise, residents are adapting in various ways to ensure their homes remain secure.