Safeguarding the Journey of Faith: India’s Kumbh Mela Introduces AI to Prevent Stampedes | WPN World People News

India hosted the world's largest pilgrimage event, the "Kumbh Mela," on the 13th of this month, with organizers expecting up to 400 million devotees to gather at the confluence of the Ganges River, the Yamuna River, and the mythical Saraswati River for the sacred bathing ritual.

Due to the high risk of stampedes caused by dense crowds, authorities have adopted advanced technological measures to ensure safety this year. The local government has introduced artificial intelligence (AI) technology, including crowd analysis systems and monitoring equipment, to conduct real-time crowd monitoring, predict high-risk areas, and quickly redirect flows to prevent potential disasters.

During the festival, thousands of cameras have been installed at the event venue and surrounding areas. Through AI algorithms, these cameras analyze crowd density and movement patterns, and when the number of people exceeds safety thresholds, the system automatically alerts relevant departments to implement evacuation measures. Additionally, specialized emergency rescue teams and first-aid stations have been set up to ensure rapid assistance in case of emergencies. These technologies not only help address issues in real time but also provide an effective risk management model for similar large-scale events in the future.

The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the application of technology demonstrates the possibility of coexistence between science and traditional culture, offering valuable insights for other countries with similar large gathering needs. Meanwhile, pilgrims have expressed appreciation for the government's organization and use of technology, believing that such arrangements provide greater safety and security for participants.