Maha Kumbh 2025: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has launched a ‘water ambulance’ at the Sangam during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, to enhance the safety of attendees. This specially equipped ambulance, staffed with doctors and senior NDRF personnel, will remain operational around the clock throughout the event. NDRF Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Manoj Sharma told ANI that the water ambulance will function as a mobile hospital, providing emergency medical care on-site.
This ambulance will have emergency medications, other medical supplies, oxygen cylinders and monitors etc. The ambulance is capable of swiftly navigating the Ganga to offer prompt assistance when required. After the festival concludes, it will be relocated to the NDRF center in Varanasi.
The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced the “Digi Kumbh” initiative for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, bringing advanced technology to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the largest religious gathering in the world. With the help of artificial intelligence (AI) and an extensive surveillance network, the event has entered a new era of digital monitoring and security.
Maha Kumbh 2025: High-Tech Surveillance
This year, the event’s security has reached new heights with the setup of the Integrated Command and Control Centre, which acts as the central hub for monitoring the entire Mela grounds. Officials can track every corner of the area, aided by four 52-seater viewing centres designed for real-time surveillance.
More than 2,750 CCTV cameras equipped with AI-powered video analytics will monitor the movement of the anticipated 40 crore devotees, making this the largest face recognition exercise ever in India. Additionally, cameras designed for number plate recognition and crowd movement monitoring will ensure efficient management of the attendees.
Despite the scale, officials are confident that the AI models, which are being fine-tuned daily, will handle challenges such as overlapping features in crowded areas and environmental factors like lighting and weather that could affect image quality.
Kumbh Mela 2025: Cyber Surveillance and Fraud Detection
For the first time, a dedicated cyber police team is on-site, actively monitoring both physical and digital threats. In addition to investigating cybercrimes such as fraud related to the tent city, the 14-member team is focused on tracking lost mobile phones, which have become a growing issue with over 25 thefts reported so far.
With cyber fraud on the rise, awareness campaigns have been launched, but cases continue to increase. One senior officer mentioned that despite efforts, over eight fraud cases have already been reported, with even senior officials falling victim to scams.
Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Underwater Drones for River Surveillance and AI-Powered Support Systems
In a pioneering move, the UP police have deployed underwater drones equipped with advanced imaging technology to patrol the riverbed at the Triveni Sangam. These drones, coupled with remote-controlled life buoys, offer continuous aquatic surveillance, transmitting real-time data to the command centre for enhanced safety.
Alongside AI surveillance, the government has introduced an AI-powered chatbot that offers multi-lingual support (11 languages) and integrates with Google Maps to assist visitors with navigation around the vast Mela ground.
The AI system also extends to logistical functions, such as monitoring the distribution of resources. A drone-based monitoring system has been set up to aid in disaster management, ensuring efficient crisis response.
The Mela ground has been meticulously mapped using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, integrated with Google Maps, to manage the event’s layout. This precise mapping helps authorities divide the space into 10 zones and 25 sectors for better resource allocation and crowd management. Drone surveys and data from previous Kumbhs are being used to optimize the planning process.
Security and Safety Measures at Kumbh Mela
To complement the tech advancements, over 37,000 police personnel, including 1,378 women officers, have been deployed for enhanced security. Specialized cyber experts and intelligence squads are also on hand to manage digital threats. In the event of fires, articulated water towers with thermal imaging will be available to provide additional protection.
The UP government has also set up an automated ration supply system and is using a real-time software program to track the progress of 530 projects related to the Mela. A detailed inventory tracking system and comprehensive Google Maps integration help guide attendees across the vast event space.
However, despite the high-tech infrastructure, there have been complaints about land allocation. Around 15,000 applicants from three states claim they have yet to receive land for their stalls and accommodations, leading to some frustration as the Mela officially begins.
This blend of technology and traditional security methods aims to provide a safe, smooth, and digitally enhanced experience for the millions of devotees attending the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.
