AI cameras, drones, NSG commandos: Millions take holy dip as Mahakumbh 2025 begins amid high-tech security

As lakhs of devotees throng Prayagraj for a holy dip in the Ganga during Maha Kumbh 2025 on Monday, the foolproof security blanket led by the Uttar Pradesh Police has caught the curious eye. Over 40,000 police personnel have been deployed across the district, supported by Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) teams and the elite National Security Guard (NSG). From AI-powered cameras to drones, the extensive security apparatus is in full display, with the state police employing high-tech measures for effective crowd control.

The Maha Kumbh Mela commenced on Monday, with a large number of devotees taking the holy dip or ‘Snan.’ Over 45 crore people are expected to attend the mega cultural gathering this year.

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The state government is promoting this mega cultural event as the “Digital Maha Kumbh.”

Crowds, traffic managements through drones and CCTV

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar told news agency ANI that comprehensive security measures are in place for the event.

“The UP Police has been given the responsibility to provide enhanced security, and we are following that protocol. Today, there will also be a flower shower. We are managing crowds and traffic through drones and CCTV. Senior officers have been on the ground,” he said.

AI based surveillance

DGP Kumar said that around 40,000 police personnel and cybercrime experts have established a web of surveillance powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to protect and help navigate the sea of humanity at the site.

102 checkpoints across key routes

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued directives for the security arrangements in the Maha Kumbh city.

As per the directive, the police have established a circular security system with 102 checkpoints across seven key routes. The security checkpoints will conduct thorough checks of vehicles and people.

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ATS, NSG present

To ensure preparedness, mock drills have been conducted by the security agencies and the state police. Alongside the UP Police, the state ATS, NSG and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) teams are also present.

The Uttar Pradesh police have also established a special floating police post to assist devotees.

Maha Kumbh 2025: World’s largest human gathering

Maha Kumbh 2025 will be the largest human gathering in the world. Devotees from across the globe have gathered in Prayagraj to take a holy dip at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mystical Saraswati rivers at Triveni Sangam.

This year’s Maha Kumbh is even more special due to the rare celestial alignment that occurs only once in 144 years.