AI cameras, RFID bands, GPS tracking: How officials plan to track pilgrims during Mahakumbh

Technology will play a key role as an estimated 40 to 45 million pilgrims attend the 45-day Mahakumbh Mela at the holy Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, where Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati converge.

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Tracking visitor numbers will be done using AI cameras, radio frequency identification or RFID wristbands and GPS tracking, officials claim. Technical experts overseeing the process from the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) at the exhibition center emphasize the importance of tracking the turnaround cycle to avoid double counting of participants.

“A turnaround cycle is the average time a pilgrim spends at the ghat and ensures accurate headcount data. The process involves calculating sample data using Cochran formula, with estimates based on 20 lakh followers on off-peak days and up to 10 crore followers on peak days,” they explained.

Average processing time is derived from three different methods: attribute-based search, which uses a person's attributes to track people; RFID wristbands given to pilgrims upon arrival; and mobile tracking via GPS of consenting individuals.

Currently, these methods are being tested to ensure accurate and reliable staffing data for Mahakumbh, officials added.

Prayagraj district commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant said that around 744 temporary CCTV cameras will be installed at 200 locations in the fairgrounds. In comparison, 1,107 permanent CCTV cameras were installed at 268 locations across the city. In addition, 720 CCTV cameras will be deployed in more than 100 parking lots to ensure seamless tracking and crowd control.

To ensure effective monitoring of the huge gathering, special observation centers have been set up at ICCC, police line control room and Arail and Jhunsi areas. These centers aim to streamline monitoring of the massive influx of devotees, he informed.

Pant stressed that managing and counting such a large crowd is a big challenge. However, the integration of AI technology will play a crucial role in addressing this problem.

The aim is to achieve an exact number of participants by using AI-controlled algorithms for people density. AI-based crowd management systems will also generate real-time alerts and allow officials to efficiently count, track and manage supporters throughout the event, he said.