The upcoming Magh Mela in Prayagraj will witness the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology by the railways to ensure effective crowd control at various stations. This move is seen as a preparation for the upcoming Maha Kumbh in 2025.
To manage the increase in crowds, devotees will be directed to 14 holding areas, including seven at Prayagraj Junction, four at Prayag station, and three at Rambagh, along with other designated circulating areas. Additionally, the railway will operate additional bogies and Mela special trains to accommodate the heavy rush of people. Shuttle buses and e-rickshaws will also be made available to transport devotees from the stations to the Mela area.
The coordination meeting between railway officials and the district administration also focused on emergency preparedness. A control tower has been constructed atop the station building to monitor the movement of devotees and facilitate crowd management. Divisional level officers will oversee the nine stations from a control room equipped with CCTV, hotlines, wireless communication, and display area boards, all of which will be connected to the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) of the Mela area.
To ensure organized entry, passengers will be directed to the Mela through designated passenger shelters from the city side. Similar arrangements are being made at Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj Cheoki, Naini, Rambagh, Prayag, Phaphamau, and Jhunsi stations. The Maha Kumbh Mela Adhikari has also instructed the medical department to prepare a detailed SOP for medical arrangements at each station and share it with the railways for effective communication.
Tickets for the Magh Mela will be issued under a new system, with the issuance process taking place outside the passenger shelter on Leader Road. Colored stickers will be placed on the tickets according to the color code of each holding area. Prayagraj Junction will provide passengers with airport-like facilities, while smaller stations will also undergo upgrades. Retiring rooms and dormitories have been prepared at Prayagraj Sangam railway station for the convenience of passengers.
To maintain crowd control, the entry into Prayagraj Junction from the city side will be closed once the passenger shelters reach their capacity. Temporary hold-up areas, such as Khusrobagh, will be utilized to manage the excess crowd.
With the implementation of AI technology and efficient crowd control measures, the railway aims to ensure the smooth functioning of the Magh Mela and provide a hassle-free experience for the devotees.
The source of the article is from the blog coletivometranca.com.br