The railway authorities are implementing comprehensive security measures, with security both at the fairgrounds and railway stations in Prayagraj being tightened, officials said. About 10 million people are expected to travel by train for the fair held once every 12 years.

For the first time, Prayagraj Division of North Central Railway (NCR) is installing facial recognition (FR) cameras along with CCTVs at railway stations especially for Mahakumbh. These AI-powered FR cameras will be instrumental in monitoring suspicious activity and identifying potential troublemakers, officials say.

Amit Singh, PRO of Prayagraj Division, said that these FR cameras use AI technology to recognize faces, making it possible to identify suspects even in crowded areas. “This capability helps control suspicious activity or potential escape situations before they escalate. The cameras can quickly detect unusual incidents, enabling an immediate response,” he said.

Singh also said that for Mahakumbh, around 650 CCTV cameras and 100 FR cameras are being installed in railway stations for the first time. The surveillance will cover routes, shelters and platforms at all the nine railway stations located in Prayagraj city.

The security setup will be in place by the end of December, with all equipment operational by January, well before the official start of the Mahakumbh on January 13, 2025, the official said.