Mata Mansa Devi Mandir Embraces AI Technology for Enhanced Visitor Management During Navratri
In a significant technological upgrade aimed at improving crowd management, the Mata Mansa Devi Mandir in Panchkula has installed advanced AI-powered face-counting systems on its premises. This initiative, specifically timed for the ongoing Navratri festival, replaces the shrine board's previous reliance on rough estimates with precise, real-time data collection.
From Estimates to Exact Numbers: The Shift to Modern Technology
Previously, the Shri Mata Mansa Devi Shrine Board depended on approximate calculations to gauge daily footfall, a method that often led to inaccuracies, especially during peak festival days. To address this, authorities have procured and set up three specialized face-counting screens that use artificial intelligence and computer vision to detect and tally each devotee as they enter.
"Each face is even visible on the screen while crossing. We earlier used to release the total number of visitors a day after. Now, we have a live update, and we release the total count every day during Navratri. It helps us manage the crowd well, and we are able to plan arrangements in advance," explained temple officials.
Comprehensive Facility Upgrades for Devotee Comfort
Alongside the technological advancements, the temple administration has undertaken several infrastructural improvements to enhance the overall experience for visitors. Nisha Yadav, CEO of the board, detailed these enhancements:
- Two new waiting sheds have been constructed to provide shelter and comfort, particularly during long queues.
- A cloakroom facility has been introduced, allowing devotees to safely deposit their belongings while offering prayers.
- Additional drinking water stations and public convenience facilities have been added to accommodate the increased footfall.
These measures are part of ongoing efforts to ensure smooth and organized temple operations, particularly during high-traffic periods like Navratri.
Impressive Footfall and Donations Recorded During Chaitra Navratri
The effectiveness of the new system was demonstrated on the sixth day of the Chaitra Navratri fair. According to data collected via the face-reading screens:
- A total of 95,000 devotees paid their obeisance at the Mata Mansa Devi Temple.
- The Kali Mata Temple in Kalka welcomed 28,000 visitors.
- The Chandi Mata Temple recorded 1,500 attendees.
In terms of donations, Deputy Commissioner and Chief Administrator Satpal Sharma reported that a combined total of Rs 37,20,365 was received across the three temples. The breakdown is as follows:
- Rs 34,34,658 at the Shri Mata Mansa Devi Temple.
- Rs 2,65,247 at the Shri Kali Mata Temple in Kalka.
- Rs 90,950 at the Chandi Mata Temple.
Additionally, the Shri Mata Mansa Devi Temple received two gold items and 31 silver items as offerings, further highlighting the devotional fervor during this sacred period.
The integration of AI-driven face-counting technology not only marks a leap forward in operational efficiency but also sets a precedent for other religious sites seeking to manage large crowds with greater precision and foresight.
