‘Over 1 Lakh Toilets, AI Surveillance, Plastic-Free Initiatives for Maha Kumbh 2025’: Amrit Abhijat & Amit Kumar Singh, UP Govt

IAS Amrit Abhijat (Principal Secretary Secy Urban Development , Urban Employment, & Urban Poverty Alleviation Department) and IAS Amit Kumar Singh (Special Secretary, Urban Development and Joint Managing Director (UP Jal- Nigam- Urban) speak exclusively with Anannya Saraswat and Aprita Banerjee from APAC News Network and CXO News regarding the safety and sanitation strategies planned for the Maha Kumbh 2025. From plastic-free initiatives to innovative waste management interventions, this Maha Kumbh is all set to be a sustainable religious experience for the devotees.

What kind of advanced technologies are put in place for registration, surveillance, and tracking of the attendees?

The ‘Digital Mahakumbh 2025’ employs a host of advanced technologies to ensure seamless registration, robust security, efficient surveillance, and real-time tracking of attendees. These systems form part of a comprehensive framework of Digital Mahakumbh, with the aim of providing an enriched and secure experience for the millions of pilgrims expected at the event.

Dedicated mobile applications will allow pilgrims to register online, access GPS-based location tracking, and get real-time route and schedule information. All the attendee data and movement will be monitored through the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) for efficient crowd management and emergency response. Additionally, Lost & Found Centers, supported by a website and mobile app, will ensure quick identification and reunification of lost individuals.

For the purpose of Advanced Surveillance a CCTV Network, including PTZ, and fixed cameras are installed all over the mela grounds that will help prevent overcrowding and offer safety. 12 ANPR cameras will enhance surveillance at key entry points, ensuring smooth flow of traffic and preventing unauthorized vehicle access. Furthermore, Drone technology will provide aerial surveillance, capturing real-time crowd density and monitor for potential risks.

What steps have been taken to ensure the safety of attendees and facilitate emergency communication?

For security purposes, AI-powered systems will analyze crowd density and vehicle counts, enabling proactive management of safety risks. 126 state-of-the-art cameras spread across nine railway stations and nine bus stands will ensure that transport security is strictly maintained.

To facilitate emergency communication, a 50-seat contact center is combined with the helpline number 1920 to enable faster communication and support. Additionally, 40 Variable Messaging Displays (VMDs) at critical locations will be used to convey important messages and emergency information to the participants in real-time.

This extensive technological integration will not only enhance the safety and security of the Maha Kumbh but will also provide pilgrims with streamlined, comfortable spiritual experiences blended with ancient traditions and modern innovations.

What interventions are undertaken to ensure proper sanitation facilities during Mahakumbh?

The Mahakumbh 2025 is poised to set new benchmarks in sanitation and eco-friendliness with a meticulously planned strategy that integrates advanced infrastructure, sustainable practices, and community engagement. The strategies focus on ensuring cleanliness and promoting environmental sustainability while accommodating millions of pilgrims.

For the first time, 1,45,000 toilets, comprising community and public toilets, will be set up across the Mela area so that sanitation facilities are available to all. For waste collection, more than 25,000 strategically located dustbins and 28,50,000 liner bags will ensure effective collection of waste. A strong fleet of 120 tippers, hoppers, and 40 Refuse Compactors will ensure easy waste transportation. Furthermore, two Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) with capacities of 100 KLD and 50 KLD, along with 10 operational Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), will handle waste and ensure treated effluents meet environmental standards.

What strategies are planned to make Mahakumbh a plastic-free experience?

For the Eco-friendly experience of pilgrims, the department has taken the following initiatives:

– Plastic Unmulan Mahaabhiyan 3.0 and Arambh 5.0: These campaigns will help to eliminate single-use plastic, promote eco-friendly alternatives, and enforce penalties for violations.

– Eco-Friendly Alternatives: Distribution of 10 lakh traditional leaf plates (dona-pattal) in lieu of single-use plastic.

– Waste-to-Wonder Projects: Waste materials will be converted into beautiful art installations, like “Waste to Wonder” Shivalaya Park which is designed with 12 jyotirlinga-themed sculptures made from recycled waste.

– Plastic-Free Markets: The provision of bag vending machines and bottle crushing systems will be installed so that marketplaces are taken care of in terms of green practices.
-Urban Beautification: 1,544 potted plants installed for the development of green spaces.

How is the department planning to spread awareness promoting cleanliness and sustainability?

Swachh Rath Yatra and Swachh Ganga Yatra will be a 7-day campaign to involve the citizens in a cleanliness drive during the Mahakumbh. Under the ‘Every Shop, A Touch’ campaign,  local shops will be provided with two dustbins to ensure proper waste management. ‘Plog Runs’ will be organized to clean ghats while raising awareness about waste management.

Other  unique interventions in this direction are:

– Record-Breaking Cleanliness Drive: Cleaning by 15,000 sanitation workers of the Sangam area simultaneously to make the Guinness Book of World Records.

– AI-Powered Surveillance: 360-degree cameras will be installed at garbage points to ensure proper waste disposal.

– Tulip Interns: 50 interns are assigned responsible for  monitoring the cleanliness around key places like drains, roads, and public places.

– Cloth Bag Distribution: More than 4,000 cloth bags have been distributed so far to promote sustainable practices.

Also Read –

• ‘2,700+ AI-enabled cameras will monitor and manage crowd control effectively in Mahakumbh 2025’: Sub Mela Adikhari Vivek Chaturvedi, Additional District Magistrate, Prayagraj