The Maha Kumbh Mela is held once every 12 years at Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad).

The Maha Kumbh Mela, to be held in Prayagraj in 2025, is likely to be a massive religious congregation by any global standard with millions of devotees expected to attend the event. It is a sacred pilgrimage undertaken by devout Hindus from across the globe who will gather to take a dip in the holy Triveni Sangam (confluence) of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers. The act is believed to wash off all their sins, and help them attain freedom from the cycle of death and rebirth. (daijiworld.com)

The logistics of managing this huge event are enormous and the Prayagraj police have reportedly asked for a budgetary allocation of Rs 400 crores (USD 49 million) for equipment and security arrangements to ensure the safety of the pilgrims, tourists, and important dignitaries expected to grace the Mela.

The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh is mulling the use of AI, drones and CCTV cameras to ensure proper supervision and security. In addition, the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) will be upgraded and hi-tech and better-quality CCTV cameras are to be installed while their numbers would also be increased.

“The high-quality cameras will enable security personnel to identify and trace suspects. Moreover, artificial intelligence technology will be used to keep a strict vigil at every corner of Maha Kumbh mela,” said SSP, Prayagraj, Shailesh Kumar Pandey.

“Policemen on duty during Maha Kumbh will also be strictly monitored. Every cop will be given a radio frequency identification or RFID card through which the control room will know their exact location and whether they are on their duty points at any given time,” he added.

Also to be requisitioned are special boats, safety equipment, drones, and other hi-tech equipment.

The Mela will be held in a huge open area on the banks of the Triveni Sangam Ghat, and pilgrims will be housed in a temporary city of tents.

Related Story: Evolv Uses AI To Detect Weapons In Schools

Image Credit: Wikimedia