KATHMANDU: Closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs) have been installed in the country's oldest central prison. The installation aims to increase surveillance to prevent incidents of prisoners escaping.

"The central and Bhadragol prison buildings have been fitted with as many as 30 CCTVs. The prison building accommodating women inmates will get CCTVs installed next year," said account officer at the central prison, Kul Prasad Regmi.

Police chief and jailor will monitor activities of prisoners through a computer monitor connected to the cameras. The installation process has been carried out at a cost of Rs 1.5 million.

Security of the prison will be strengthened with the CCTV installation, said Deputy Superintendent of Police Mitra Bandhu Sharma.

The 104-year-old central prison has a total of 2,803 inmates.