Prayagraj: Nearly 50,000 police personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety and smooth running of the Maha Kumbh, which is expected to draw approximately 450 million pilgrims. Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar, in an interview with Dr Navneet Anand, Editor-in-Chief of Bureaucrats India, outlined the extensive security and logistical arrangements in place for this monumental event.

DGP Kumar assured, "We are fully prepared to provide a safe and seamless Kumbh experience for all pilgrims." Comprehensive contingency plans have been developed to address potential risks such as stampedes and natural disasters. He elaborated, "We have established 400 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for emergencies, including fire incidents, CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) threats, and crowd management. Regular mock drills are conducted in collaboration with the NDRF and SDRF to ensure readiness. All major forces are coordinated and actively deployed."

Discussing logistics, DGP Kumar highlighted the critical role of transportation. "With approximately 85% of visitors expected to arrive by road and 12-15% by rail, we have widened highways and inaugurated new corridors to accommodate the influx. Seven designated routes for vehicles and pedestrians have been prepared to ensure smooth access, and chartered flights will also be available. Advanced data analytics are being utilised to manage vehicle movement and prevent congestion," he stated.

To enhance surveillance, around 3,000 AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed across the event grounds. Additionally, 20 advanced drones, capable of continuous flight for 20-30 hours, will provide real-time aerial monitoring. Cutting-edge anti-drone technologies have also been integrated to strengthen security.

The DGP also mentioned the establishment of 19 digital lost-and-found centres, equipped with AI-enabled cameras to swiftly identify missing individuals. Special measures have been implemented to assist with lost mobile devices, ensuring visitors have a hassle-free experience.

"In line with our Prime Minister’s vision, we are working to make this Maha Kumbh a truly digital Kumbh through extensive technology integration," Kumar added. He also noted that personnel have been trained on the new criminal laws effective from 1 July 2024 to ensure efficient law enforcement during the event.

BI Bureau