PIMPRI-CHINCHWAD: With safety becoming a prime issue for citizens of Pimpri-Chinchwad, home security is finding growing emphasis in the region. Demand for high-end as well as mid-level security systems for residences as well as industrial houses has risen dramatically in the last three to four years. Manufacturers and dealers in these systems report more than 50 percent growth in demand for security and burglar alarm systems, CCTV cameras, alarm sensors etc.
Similarly, most apartments and bungalows go in for extra safety grill doors, besides using designer grills for their windows and balconies, some ready to pay a huge amount to get the right look and ensure utmost safety for their homes.
"With rapid change in lifestyles as well as living spaces, these alarm systems and security appliances have become a matter of necessity in urban areas today. In the interior regions of Pimpri-Chinchwad, people usually have bungalows with neighbours living quite far apart. Also with joint families reducing today, there are not too many members in each home," said Shashikant Kulkarni, owner of Safe Guard Security Systems.
"To ensure one's safety, these residents are ready to cough up hefty amounts on these appliances. CCTV cameras to look outside before opening the door, security burglar alarms directly connected to the local police station etc are in great demand," Kulkarni said adding that lack of easy access to police stations in the more distant parts of the region, is another reason for the rising demand for these products.
There has been more than 40 percent increase in demand from last year for CCTVs and home security equipment. The trend to go in for independent security systems are indulged by residents in bungalows and apartments alike. "Once some people in the neighborhood install such systems, other want to imitate them, that's how we get our business," said Ajit Babanrao Gawade, of Signal Circuit. Also there is rising awareness on how these systems ensure protection in one's home. "There is also a greater fear factor today in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, as crime graphs are up, and we hear more news about criminal incidents, especially when senior citizens are alone at home," said Gawade adding that building societies invariably install alarm sensors and CCTVs in the society premises, and with newer buildings coming up; the demand for these products too is rising.
Residents spend as much as Rs 70,000 to more than Rs 1.5 lakh depending on the quality and brand of the systems. "Some leading brands, such as HoneywellBSE 1.27 %, Samsung, and Bosch etc are expensive. Some go in for cheaper Chinese versions, though the quality is compromised," said Gawade.
