AI-enabled CCTVs & drones to watch over Kumbh crowd

Nashik: A vast network of over 4,000 AI-enabled closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras and 18 surveillance drones will be deployed across Nashik city and Trimbakeshwar to monitor crowd movement during the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, slated to be held in 2027.The project, being executed by the Nashik Smart City Development Corporation Ltd (NMSCDCL), will become fully operational by March 2027 and is expected to significantly enhance the management of one of the world's largest religious gatherings.An official from the NMSCDCL said the AI-supported system will provide real-time alerts, detect overcrowded zones, and enable faster decision-making during peak footfall days. The technology-driven approach aims to ensure smooth movement of pilgrims and strengthen overall security during the religious conglomerate.Of the total 4,011 cameras, around 3,000 will be installed at 800 locations across Nashik city. In Trimbakeshwar, 700 cameras will be placed at approximately 200 points, while the remaining 300 cameras will be positioned in rural pockets, especially at parking lots and other major locations identified for Kumbh-related activities. These installations will cover most high-density routes and locations associated with the festival.According to Shekhar Singh, commissioner of the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority, the AI-based surveillance network will play a crucial role in preventing crowd congestion. "The system will alert the command-and-control centres the moment any location begins to get overcrowded, enabling authorities to divert crowds or increase deployment immediately. Singh added that the technology will be particularly important during the Amrit Snan days, which attract the largest number of devotees." he said.The installation of all cameras is targeted to be completed by March 2026, followed by a detailed integration phase. The final integration of the system with central command centres, along with drone monitoring and data analytics, will be completed by March 2027. This will create a unified real-time monitoring system ahead of the Kumbh Mela."The estimated cost of the entire project is around Rs300 crore, out of which Rs60 crore will be spent by March 2026. The project also includes setting up a modern data centre, integrating drone feeds, and linking all CCTVs with the smart city's command-and-control rooms," the official said.