Nashik: Maharashtra chief secretary Rajesh Aggarwal has directed authorities concerned to deploy artificial intelligence-based technologies for effective crowd management during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027.
High-Level Review Meeting
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting in Mumbai to review preparedness for the mega religious event. Senior government officials and representatives from leading AI technology firms were present at the meeting.
Aggarwal reviewed proposals for AI-enabled CCTV surveillance, real-time crowd density mapping, predictive analytics, facial recognition systems for tracing missing people, and automated alerts to avert stampede-like situations. He also took stock of plans to install around 4,000 CCTV cameras and extend optical fibre networks across Nashik and Trimbakeshwar ahead of the event.
AI-Powered Solutions Discussed
A detailed discussion was held on the effective use of artificial intelligence for crowd management, traffic regulation, healthcare services, and emergency response during the Kumbh Mela, officials from the Kumbh Mela Authority said.
One of the key proposals discussed was KumbhDoot, an AI-powered assistant being developed in collaboration with a non-profit organisation. KumbhDoot is designed to be accessible even to users with basic feature phones. Officials said the same AI system will function seamlessly across multiple platforms, including WhatsApp, IVR helplines, mobile applications, and public information kiosks. Pilgrims will be able to seek health advice through the system.
Kumbh AI Stack for Real-Time Analysis
The Nashik–Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority has also proposed a Kumbh AI Stack, which will enable real-time analysis of data from thousands of CCTV cameras, drones, sensors, and mobile networks. This integrated approach aims to ensure smooth management of the massive congregation expected in 2027.
