AI to Revolutionize Crowd Management at Mahakumbh Mela 2025

As Prayagraj prepares for the grand spectacle of Mahakumbh Mela 2025, cutting-edge AI-based technology will be deployed to ensure effective crowd management and enhance the safety and convenience of an anticipated 45 crore devotees, according to SSP Mahakumbh Mela, Rajesh Dwivedi.

This marks the first instance of large-scale digitization at the Mahakumbh, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and social media platforms playing a pivotal role in managing the event’s enormous logistical and security challenges.

Yogi Adityanath Government's Vision for a Safer Mela

The Yogi Adityanath-led government is committed to transforming Mahakumbh Mela 2025 into a more organized and secure event by leveraging technology. Around 2,700 CCTV cameras are being installed throughout the district and the fairgrounds.

Integrating AI for Smarter Surveillance

• AI-powered cameras will not only monitor the vast crowds but will also generate real-time alerts to assist authorities in managing the event.

• These state-of-the-art cameras are being combined with human intelligence to enhance decision-making.

SSP Dwivedi added:

"Cameras with AI features have also been installed in the area. These cameras will automatically send us alerts based on their feed. This step would be in addition to human intelligence."

Digital Lost-and-Found Centers: A Tech-Driven Solution

One of the most significant innovations this year is the introduction of a digital ‘khoya paaya kendra’ (lost-and-found centre), which will go live on December 1, 2024. This initiative will use advanced AI to reunite individuals separated from their loved ones.

Features of the Digital Lost-and-Found Centers

• Face recognition technology will instantly identify missing individuals among the crowd.

• Missing persons’ information will be shared on social media platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), ensuring swift reunions.

AI-Powered Crowd Monitoring and Security

To maintain 24/7 vigilance over the massive gathering, the administration is equipping the event area with 328 AI-enabled cameras, which have already been successfully tested at four key locations.

Benefits of AI in Crowd Management

1. Real-Time Alerts: Cameras with AI capabilities will notify authorities of unusual activity or overcrowding.

2. Enhanced Safety: The technology will assist in preventing potential security risks and accidents.

3. Efficient Resource Allocation: Real-time data from AI-enabled cameras will enable quicker responses.

Social Media: Aiding Devotees and Families

In a first, social media platforms will play a crucial role in crowd management at Mahakumbh. Platforms like Facebook and X will provide immediate assistance in locating missing relatives, streamlining the process of reuniting families.

Conclusion

The upcoming Mahakumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj promises to be a historic event, not only for its scale and spiritual significance but also for the technological advancements being integrated into its planning and execution. With an expected turnout of 45 crore devotees, the challenges of crowd management, security, and convenience are monumental.

However, the adoption of AI-based technology, alongside traditional human intelligence, demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that ensures the safety and well-being of attendees.

The introduction of 328 AI-enabled cameras, equipped with real-time monitoring and alert systems, underscores the administration's commitment to leveraging modern technology to tackle logistical challenges.

These cameras, coupled with a robust network of 2,700 CCTV cameras, provide a 24/7 surveillance system capable of not only identifying overcrowded areas but also predicting potential security risks. This technological framework ensures that resources can be mobilized efficiently to address issues as they arise.

One of the most transformative initiatives is the creation of a digital lost-and-found center, or "khoya paaya kendra," set to launch on December 1, 2024. Powered by face recognition technology, this system ensures that individuals separated from their families can be identified and reunited swiftly.

By integrating social media platforms like Facebook and X into this process, the authorities have created a collaborative and far-reaching system to provide real-time assistance to the pilgrims. This is particularly significant given the emotional and psychological toll of losing loved ones in such massive gatherings.