PRAYAGRAJ, India — January 22, (V7N) - The Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest human gathering, is setting new standards for safety with cutting-edge technology. Authorities are using artificial intelligence (AI) to manage the massive crowds of pilgrims, ensuring a safer experience for millions.

With up to 400 million devotees expected over six weeks, AI-powered tools like cameras and drones are helping authorities monitor and control crowd density.

"We want everyone to fulfill their spiritual duties and return home safely," said Amit Kumar, the senior police officer overseeing tech operations at the festival.

This year’s tech-forward approach marks a historic shift for the Kumbh Mela, an event with a tragic history of stampedes.

1954: Over 400 lives lost in a single day.

2013: A stampede claimed 36 lives.

High-Tech Safety Measures

A centralized command center in Prayagraj tracks the crowd through 300 cameras and overhead drones. The footage is fed into AI algorithms that analyze crowd sizes and trigger alerts if conditions become unsafe.

“AI allows us to monitor sensitive areas and act before things escalate,” Kumar explained.

This system also integrates data from transportation networks, helping manage the flow of pilgrims arriving at and leaving the festival.

Rooted in Hindu mythology, the Kumbh Mela symbolizes the pursuit of spiritual immortality. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath hailed the event as a blend of faith and modernity, highlighting the role of technology in ensuring safety.

Pilgrims like 28-year-old Harshit Joshi expressed confidence in the system:

"Knowing cameras and drones are watching over us makes us feel safe."

With AI at the forefront of crowd management, the 2025 Kumbh Mela promises to be a groundbreaking event, combining ancient traditions with modern innovations. Authorities hope these advancements set a global standard for managing massive gatherings.
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