Chennai, Dec 2 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative for Tamil Nadu, the State police are leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to effectively manage the anticipated surge of devotees for the Karthigai Deepam festival in Tiruvannamalai on December 3.

With lakhs of pilgrims expected to flock to the temple town, officials assert that this tech-driven method will aid in mitigating overcrowding and facilitate smoother movement across critical areas.

The police have enlisted the help of IT specialists who previously implemented similar AI systems during the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. These AI solutions are now seamlessly integrated with hundreds of CCTV cameras positioned along all major roads leading to the Arunachaleswarar Temple, the four mada streets, the 14-km girivalam path, and other high-traffic junctions.

Unlike last year’s arrangements, which relied heavily on manually monitored live CCTV feeds, the new AI system will autonomously alert the control room when it detects concerning levels of congestion or a potential stampede situation.

The system evaluates crowd density based on internationally recognized standards, issuing warnings when density surpasses four to five individuals per square meter — a threshold at which movement becomes impeded and safety risks increase.

“With this AI-enabled platform, we will accurately determine the number of people or vehicles present in any given area, achieving approximately 95% accuracy,” stated Assistant Superintendent of Police Dhanush Kumar.

“A density of four individuals per square meter raises a red flag for us. Special response teams are strategically positioned at various locations to act swiftly upon receiving alerts.”

Traffic management teams will also receive real-time updates regarding vehicle flow, parking availability, and movement in and out of the town.

Cameras have been deployed at 35 of the 100 parking facilities and at 11 major bus terminals. To support devotees, the police have established numerous help booths at key locations, including ten hotline phone booths directly linked to the control room. Additionally, drone surveillance will provide ongoing aerial monitoring throughout the event.

Inspector-General of Police (North Zone) Asra Garg, DIG (Vellore Range) G. Dharmarajan, Tiruvannamalai SP M. Sudhakar, and senior officials have assessed overall preparedness and emergency response protocols on-site.

The “Deepam 2025” mobile app has been enhanced with information regarding medical facilities, ambulance locations, Anna Danam centers, and emergency contacts for devotees. Officials mentioned that the platform’s real-time data features will assist devotees in navigating the town more effectively and accessing help when needed.