Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, will leverage AI-powered cameras, along with drones, anti-drones, and tethered drones strategically deployed to enhance surveillance.

As part of special cyber security arrangements, 56 dedicated cyber warriors will be deployed. 40 Variable Messaging Displays (VMDs) will be installed in both the fair area and the commissionerates for raising awareness about cyber threats. Cyber experts will actively monitor online threats and investigate gangs exploiting AI, Facebook, X, and Instagram. 

Using advanced technology

Inspired by Kumbh 2019, ten stalls facilitating the pilgrims with this experience were set up at prime locations in the Kumbh Mela area. These stalls will show videos of major events such as Peshwai (Grand procession of Akhadas), auspicious bathing days (naan), Ganga aarti, and multiple special footages from this grand festival of faith and harmony.

A fleet of 2,000 drones will narrate the legendary tales of "Prayag Mahatmyam" and "Samudra Manthan," creating a magical evening spectacle over the Sangam Nose. Uttar Pradesh's newest district, Maha Kumbh Nagar, is being established with state-of-the-art facilities in record time. The digitalization of land allotments includes online availability of land and facilities through the "Maha Kumbh Land and Facility Allotment" site; digitized records for over 10,000 institutions, including government, social, and religious organizations; drone surveys conducted before and after the monsoon to map land topography with high accuracy; comprehensive data digitization of applications and live tracking of application status and allotments.

Google Maps offers seamless navigation with GIS-based maps of essential public utilities, including emergency services, police stations, checkpoints, command and control centers, hospitals, parking areas, food courts, vending zones, toilets, pontoon bridges, roads, etc.

Large-scale deployment of remote-controlled life buoys has been introduced to enhance safety. These devices can rapidly reach any location and transport individuals to safety in case of emergencies, ensuring the well-being of pilgrims. The newly introduced underwater drones will provide 24/7 surveillance beneath the waters, monitoring all activities. Notably, these drones are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to function effectively in low-light conditions, ensuring precise tracking of targets. This state-of-the-art underwater drone can dive up to 100 meters and transmit real-time activity reports to the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC). 

Furthermore, for the first time, high-tech lost-and-found registration centers are being established in association with the state police department. 

Tradition meets technology

From high-tech security measures to digital land allotments and immersive virtual reality experiences, Maha Kumbh 2025 redefines how devotees connect with their faith and the event's rich cultural heritage. With comprehensive preparations spanning infrastructure, safety, and digital services, the Maha Kumbh is poised to become a model of harmony between tradition and technology.

PIB

Image: UNESCO