Maha Kumbh goes high-tech: 2,700 CCTVs, AI and underwater drones for crowd control
The Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is expected to be the largest cultural and spiritual gathering, with over 450 million participants anticipated. The Uttar Pradesh government is implementing extensive security measures to ensure the safety of the event.
These measures include heightened surveillance at temples and key locations in Maha Kumbh Nagar, along with multiple checkpoints to screen everyone entering the area. Proactive intelligence teams will monitor for any suspicious activity. For fire safety, the Uttar Pradesh Fire and Emergency Services have deployed modern fire-fighting systems. Four articulating water towers (AWTs) are strategically placed at the fairgrounds.
These towers use video and thermal imaging to tackle fires in tall buildings and tents, offering protection for firefighters. The authorities have allocated ₹131.48 crore for this purpose, purchasing 351 fire-fighting vehicles and training over 2,000 staff members.
Advanced technology will also play a vital role in security at the event. AI and drones will monitor the area, while underwater drones will provide continuous surveillance of the river regions. A specialized cybersecurity team will ensure the protection of the digital components of the event. A newly introduced multi-disaster response vehicle will assist with emergency management.
Equipped with victim location cameras, lifting tools, and cutting equipment, the vehicle is designed for rescuing people from dangerous situations. It also includes life-saving equipment, such as life jackets and temperature-measuring tools, and can handle heavy debris using its 10-20-ton lifting capacity.
In emergency situations, remote-controlled life buoys will help quickly transport people to safety. The Incident Response System (IRS) ensures that response teams are activated promptly, with designated commanders overseeing the operations. A robust seven-level security system, including thorough vehicle inspections and searches, will be implemented across Prayagraj. The Prayagraj Police have set up temporary stations and deployed over 10,000 officers, supported by disaster response teams.
Additionally, more than 700 vessels and explosive ordnance disposal teams will be stationed in the area. Preemptive safety measures will be carried out across 18 divisions, with multiple inspection points. The Uttar Pradesh government has also mobilized a large contingent of Water Police officers equipped with advanced technology to ensure safety at the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, particularly in the Sangam region. These officers will use underwater drones and sonar systems for round-the-clock surveillance.
A total of 3,800 Water Police personnel will be stationed at the event, with an additional 1,300 arriving before the gathering. The Water Police will patrol the rivers using 11 FRP speed motorboats and 25 rechargeable mobile lighting units. Four water ambulances will be on standby, equipped with medical facilities to handle emergencies. Special barricades have been set up along an 8 km stretch of the river to prevent accidents, and trained staff are ready to respond to incidents.
Security efforts also cover land, water, and air. Comprehensive mock drills will test equipment and protocols to ensure readiness. Additionally, Lost and Found registration hubs will be set up to help reconnect lost pilgrims with their families, using digital sign-ups and public notifications. These extensive security measures aim to provide a safe and smooth experience for the millions of pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh 2025.
