The iconic cinematic cliché of loved ones getting lost in the sprawling crowds of the Kumbh Mela will soon be relegated to the pages of history. The Uttar Pradesh government is leveraging modern technology and meticulous planning to ensure that the upcoming Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is a secure and seamless experience for all pilgrims.
Gone are the days of dramatic separations and tearful reunions depicted in countless Bollywood films. The state administration, in collaboration with the Prayagraj Mela Authority and the Police Department, is introducing a state-of-the-art lost-and-found system. This initiative is designed not only to prevent cases of missing persons but also to ensure quick reunions in the rare event of separation.
At the heart of this transformation are digital Khoya-Paya (lost-and-found) centers. These centers will utilize advanced digital registration systems, where details of missing individuals will be promptly recorded and shared across multiple platforms, including social media channels like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). The system promises to replace tales of separation with success stories of safe and swift reunions.
"Regular announcements and the integration of technology will ensure no family has to endure prolonged anxiety. Instead, we aim to redefine the Kumbh as a place of security and memorable experiences," a senior official stated.
Special provisions are being made to safeguard vulnerable groups, particularly children and women. Individuals claiming a lost child or woman must provide verifiable identification. If any doubt arises, the police will intervene to ensure safety. This precautionary measure eliminates fears often portrayed in films where lost individuals fall into the wrong hands.
A cinematic shift: From drama to reality
The trope of siblings or loved ones separating at the Kumbh Mela has been immortalized in Indian cinema, from the 1943 classic Taqdeer to the 1970s hit Mela. These narratives depicted the overwhelming challenge of reuniting amidst millions of attendees.
However, Maha Kumbh 2025 aims to rewrite this narrative with a high-tech approach. If a missing person remains unclaimed for 12 hours, authorities will step in to provide shelter and care. “With these measures, the dramatized chaos of Kumbh separations will be replaced with a reality rooted in safety and reunions,” a government spokesperson emphasized.
AI-powered surveillance: Face recognition cameras
For the first time, the Prayagraj Railway Division will deploy advanced face recognition (FR) cameras alongside CCTV systems at railway stations catering to Maha Kumbh pilgrims. Powered by artificial intelligence, these cameras will monitor crowded areas, identify suspicious individuals, and prevent potential security risks.
“With nearly 10 crore devotees expected to travel by train for the event, we are committed to implementing robust security arrangements,” said Amit Singh, PRO of Prayagraj Railway Division. “The FR cameras can swiftly detect anomalies, enabling immediate action to prevent mishaps.”
To bolster security, approximately 650 CCTV cameras and 100 FR cameras will be installed at key railway stations in Prayagraj. Surveillance will cover platforms, shelters, and access routes. The comprehensive setup is scheduled to be operational by January, ensuring readiness well before the Maha Kumbh begins.
“With these technological advancements and proactive measures, the Maha Kumbh 2025 promises to be a historic event where safety and organization take precedence over chaos. Pilgrims can look forward to a spiritually enriching journey, free from the fear of separation or mishap. The Uttar Pradesh government’s efforts are poised to transform the Kumbh Mela into a modern, secure, and unforgettable experience for millions,” Rajesg Dwivedi a senior police officer posted at Kumbhnagari told Moneycontrol.
Read more from our Maha Kumbh 2025 series
Mahakumbh 2025: A spectacle blending faith with economic prosperity
How Prayagraj is getting a world-class makeover for Mahakumbh 2025
How thousands of workers are giving shape to Maha Kumbh 2025: 'It’s a 24-hour mission'
Maha Kumbh 2025: 3 streams of Ganga 'merged' into one, inspired by a mythological tale
Luxury tent city and budget stay options await pilgrims at Mahakumbh
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