Millions from across the world are flocking to the holy city or Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh to witness what is said to be a once in a lifetime opportunity. Security remains a primary concern as people of different castes, cultures, religions and race come together for the 45-day spectacle, which is so large it can be seen from space.
As 400 million devotees, including global dignitaries and spiritual leaders, are expected to visit the Sangam from January 13 to February 26, authorities have implemented groundbreaking measures to ensure the safety and security of the visitors.
UNDERWATER DRONES
In a first, the Uttar Pradesh police have deployed underwater drones capable of diving up to 100 meters to provide round-the-clock surveillance in the Sangam area. Tethered drones are monitoring crowd movements from above to ensure rapid response to medical emergencies.
Five Vajra vehicles, 10 drones, and four anti-sabotage teams will patrol the area around the clock, DGP Prashant Kumar said.
The security framework also includes 2,700 AI-enabled cameras equipped with facial recognition technology, strategically placed at entry points and key locations. These cameras provide real-time monitoring to prevent mishaps and ensure the safety of devotees. A team of 56 cyber warriors is actively monitoring online threats, supported by cyber help desks at all city police stations.
KUMBH Sah’AI’yak CHATBOT
This time, the devotees have also got an AI companion called The Kumbh Sah’AI’yak chatbot to help them nevigate through the event. The cutting-edge AI tool is accessible via the official Maha Kumbh 2025 app or WhatsApp. It offers multilingual support, interactive guidance, personalised navigation, and cultural insights. Visitors can also get real-time updates on rituals, crowd conditions, and emergency alerts.
AI-POWERED SECURITY
- 40,000 police personnel and cybercrime experts at work
- Underwater drones capable of diving up to 100 meters
- Drones reaching heights of 120 meters monitoring crowd movements
- 2,700 AI-enabled cameras equipped with facial recognition technology
- Kumbh Sah’AI’yak chatbot acting as a digital companion for devotees
SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS
In line with the CM’s directives, the Uttar Pradesh police have set up a circular security system with 102 checkpoints along seven critical routes. 1,000 police personnel including 71 inspectors, 234 sub-inspectors, and 645 constables, have been deployed to man these checkpoints.
The Uttar Pradesh police have also implemented a multi-layered security system dubbed “impenetrable security chakravyuh” around Prayagraj to protect key installations, including temples and akhadas.