The age-old cinematic trope of loved ones getting separated in the chaotic crowds of the Kumbh Mela is set to become a thing of the past. The Uttar Pradesh government is pulling out all the stops to ensure that the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj will be a secure and seamless experience for crores of pilgrims.
Through meticulous planning and cutting-edge technology, the state administration aims to eliminate the fear of separation at the mega event. The Prayagraj Mela Authority, in collaboration with the Police Department, is rolling out an advanced lost-and-found system that prioritizes prevention and rapid reunions.
At the forefront of this initiative are digital Khoya-Paya centers, which will feature a robust digital registration system. Missing persons’ details will be swiftly recorded and shared across multiple platforms, including popular social media channels like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). Officials believe this tech-driven approach will replace heart-wrenching tales of separation with reassuring stories of timely reunions.
“Announcements at regular intervals and the use of digital platforms will ensure no family has to endure prolonged anxiety,” said a senior official overseeing preparations. “Our aim is to redefine the Kumbh as a place of safety and cherished memories.” Special measures are being implemented to protect vulnerable groups, especially women and children. Any individual claiming a lost child or woman must provide verifiable identification.
In cases of uncertainty, police intervention will be immediate, leaving no room for error or potential harm.
“This system eliminates the fears depicted in movies where lost individuals are taken away by the wrong people.
Instead, we are ensuring their safety through a secure and organized process,” the official added.The theme of siblings or loved ones getting separated at the Kumbh has been a staple in Indian cinema, from the 1943 classic Taqdeer to the 1970s hit Mela.
The Maha Kumbh 2025, however, is poised to rewrite this narrative with its tech-powered approach.
In cases where a missing individual remains unclaimed for over 12 hours, authorities will step in to provide shelter and care. “The dramatized chaos of separations will give way to a reality of safety and timely reunions,” said a government spokesperson.
For the first time, advanced face recognition (FR) cameras, powered by artificial intelligence, will be installed at key railway stations catering to Maha Kumbh pilgrims.
The Prayagraj Railway Division is spearheading this initiative, alongside the deployment of over 650 CCTV cameras and 100 FR cameras.
“With nearly 10 crore devotees expected to travel by train, these FR cameras will play a crucial role in monitoring crowded areas and identifying suspicious individuals. This ensures prompt action in case of anomalies,” said Amit Singh, PRO of Prayagraj Railway Division. The cameras, which will be operational by January, will cover all nine railway stations in Prayagraj, monitoring platforms, shelters, and access routes. The comprehensive surveillance system is aimed at preempting security risks and ensuring the safety of pilgrims.
The Uttar Pradesh government’s proactive measures are set to transform the Maha Kumbh 2025 into a modern, secure, and unforgettable event.
“With these advancements, pilgrims can enjoy a spiritually enriching experience without the fear of getting lost or encountering mishaps,” said Rajesh Dwivedi, a senior police officer stationed in Kumbh Nagari.
The Maha Kumbh, a confluence of faith and tradition, is now also becoming a showcase of technology and meticulous planning, ensuring that the 2025 event is not just memorable but also worry-free.
