AI-Based Security System Deployed for Nashik Kumbh Mela; 4,011 CCTV Cameras and 18 Drones to Be Installed

Nashik: In preparation for the upcoming Nashik Kumbh Mela (Simhastha), authorities are setting up a massive Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based surveillance network in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar to monitor the movement of millions of devotees. The system will include 4,011 advanced CCTV cameras and 18 surveillance drones to ensure real-time monitoring and enhanced security.

The AI-powered system will analyze live video feeds to identify significant incidents, enabling authorities to manage crowd movement, detect suspicious activities, and regulate traffic effectively.

Massive Footfall Expected

An estimated six to seven crore devotees are expected to participate in the Kumbh Mela following the Prayagraj gathering. As one of the largest religious congregations of Hindus, the event is held along the banks of the Godavari River in densely populated areas, making crowd management a critical challenge.

During the 2003–04 Kumbh Mela in Nashik, a stampede during a royal procession resulted in the deaths of 30 devotees. However, no major incidents were reported during the 2015 event due to improved precautions. This time, authorities are relying on advanced technology to further strengthen safety arrangements.

Deployment Details

Out of the total 4,011 CCTV cameras:

• 3,000 cameras will be installed across Nashik city.

• 700 cameras will be placed in Trimbakeshwar.

• The remaining cameras will cover parking areas and other potential crowd congestion points.

A live demonstration of the system was recently conducted in Trimbakeshwar to test its operational efficiency, analytical accuracy, response time, and integrated coordination capabilities.

The surveillance system includes features such as facial recognition, unauthorized entry detection, fire and smoke detection, and identification of suspicious activities. During testing, the system successfully detected and flagged such events. Real-time drone surveillance data will also be analyzed and transmitted to a central Command and Control Centre, from where authorities can issue area-specific public announcements.

CCTV cameras have already been installed at key locations, including the main entrance of the Trimbakeshwar temple, the North and Gayatri gates, the police station premises, and major roads to monitor and manage crowds effectively.

₹300 Crore Integrated Project

Approximately ₹300 crore will be spent on this comprehensive surveillance project. The plan includes integrating all CCTV cameras with the Command and Control Centre, compiling drone footage, and establishing a modern data centre to support operations.

The installation of all cameras is scheduled to be completed by March 2026. In subsequent phases, drone monitoring, data analysis, and full integration with the central command centre will be implemented to create a seamless security system.

Speaking about the initiative, Shekhar Singh, Commissioner of the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority, stated that the advanced AI-based system will play a crucial role in ensuring effective crowd management and maintaining safety during the grand religious gathering.