Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government is gearing up to host the 2025 Prayagraj Mahakumbh Mela, scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 26, 2025. With an expected attendance of 45 crore pilgrims, this monumental event has prompted the deployment of cutting-edge surveillance and security systems, aiming to set a global benchmark for crowd management and safety.
State-of-the-Art Surveillance Technology
For the first time in the history of the Mahakumbh Mela, underwater drones will be deployed to monitor both aquatic and aerial zones in the Sangam region. These drones are equipped to operate at depths of up to 100 meters underwater and at heights of up to 120 meters in the air. Their capabilities include constant surveillance, even under low-light conditions, ensuring the safety of devotees in and around the sacred waters.
To bolster airspace security, anti-drone technology, which was successfully utilized during the Pran Pratishtha ritual at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, will be implemented. These systems are designed to detect, track, and neutralize any unauthorized aerial objects, safeguarding the skies over the Mahakumbh Mela.
AI and Facial Recognition for Real-Time Monitoring
The mela grounds will feature AI-enabled cameras capable of real-time crowd size analysis. These cameras will provide accurate data on attendance, facilitating better crowd management. Additionally, facial recognition technology will enhance security measures by identifying individuals and flagging suspicious activities, thus ensuring a seamless and secure environment for all attendees.
Enhanced Water Patrol and Safety
A fleet of over 700 boats, manned by personnel from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), will patrol the waters of the Sangam. These boats will be equipped with remote-controlled safety systems, enabling quick response to emergencies and ensuring the safety of pilgrims partaking in rituals and holy dips.
High-Tech Testing and Implementation
The technological upgrades have undergone rigorous testing. Recently, Prayagraj Inspector General of Police (East Zone), Rajiv Narayan Mishra, supervised the trial of a high-speed underwater drone designed to detect suspicious activity and provide instant reports. This test underscored the efficacy of the advanced systems being employed.
Setting a Global Standard
The integration of advanced technologies like AI surveillance, underwater drones, and anti-drone equipment establishes the 2025 Prayagraj Mahakumbh Mela as a trailblazer in event security and management. The Uttar Pradesh government’s commitment to leveraging these innovative systems not only ensures the safety of millions but also sets a precedent for managing large-scale gatherings worldwide.
As the countdown to the Mahakumbh Mela begins, these state-of-the-art measures promise an unparalleled experience for pilgrims and visitors alike, reinforcing Prayagraj’s status as a beacon of tradition and technological advancement.
