Prayagraj: Maha Kumbh 2025 is poised to shatter records, not only in terms of the staggering number of devotees expected to take a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam but also by becoming the site of the world’s largest headcount using advanced technology. The Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government is planning an unprecedented initiative to accurately count and track the estimated 40 to 45 crore devotees attending this grand spiritual event.
Harnessing AI to Track the Faithful
For the first time in the history of Maha Kumbh, artificial intelligence (AI) and state-of-the-art technology will be employed to conduct an accurate headcount of the massive influx of pilgrims. On Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directive, the fair administration has embarked on leveraging AI-powered crowd density algorithms, RFID wristbands, and mobile app-based GPS tracking to ensure precision.
Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant highlighted the scale of the effort: “Over 40 crore people are expected to participate in Maha Kumbh 2025, making it the largest gathering in human history. Accurate tracking of such a massive crowd is a monumental challenge, but AI will play a pivotal role in ensuring success.”
Massive CCTV Network to Bolster Monitoring
The government is setting up a robust surveillance network, with:
- 744 temporary CCTV cameras across 200 locations in the fairgrounds.
- 1,107 permanent CCTV cameras at 268 locations in the city.
- 720 cameras monitoring over 100 parking areas.
The data from these cameras will be analyzed at control centers in key areas like Arail and Jhunsi, alongside ICCC (Integrated Command and Control Center) and Police Line Control Rooms.
Innovative Tracking Techniques
The headcount strategy includes three main methods:
- Attribute-Based AI Search: AI cameras will use person-specific attributes for tracking, reducing the risk of duplicate counts.
- RFID Wristbands: Devotees will receive wristbands embedded with RFID technology, enabling precise tracking of their time spent in the fairgrounds.
- Mobile App Tracking: A mobile app will monitor GPS locations of pilgrims who consent, offering additional data for analysis.
To avoid double counting, the turnaround cycle – the average time a devotee spends at the ghats – will be carefully calculated using the Cochrane formula. This will ensure an accurate estimate, even on peak days when up to 10 crore pilgrims are expected.
Real-Time Updates with 95% Accuracy
AI cameras will operate between 3 a.m. and 7 p.m., the prime hours for bathing rituals. These cameras will provide real-time data updates, offering an accuracy rate of up to 95%. Similar methods used during the Magh Mela proved highly effective, setting the stage for their implementation on an even grander scale at Maha Kumbh.
A Historic Feat in the Making
Maha Kumbh 2025 is not only a spiritual event but a technological marvel in the making. By combining faith with innovation, the Yogi government aims to set a global benchmark in managing and documenting large-scale gatherings. As millions converge on Prayagraj for this sacred occasion, the efforts to capture this monumental human movement promise to make history.
This convergence of spirituality and technology will not only honor the tradition of Maha Kumbh but also showcase India’s ability to integrate modern solutions into ancient practices.
