Underwater drones to be deployed for the first time, ensuring 24/7 surveillance during the grand event
The Uttar Pradesh government is leaving no stones unturned to ensure safety and security during the upcoming Mahakumbh 2025. With an expected turnout of millions of devotees from around the globe, the administration has introduced advanced surveillance measures, setting new benchmarks in event security.
For the first time in Mahakumbh’s history, underwater drones and tethered aerial drones will be deployed to monitor activities across land, air, and water, ensuring a safe experience for all attendees.
Underwater Surveillance: First For Mahakumbh
Led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state government is ensuring use of state-of-the-art technology for security during Mahakumbh. A significant innovation this year is the deployment of underwater drones, capable of diving up to 100 metres deep.
These state-of-the-art devices are designed to provide round-the-clock monitoring of the rivers, ensuring the safety of pilgrims participating in holy dips. Equipped with advanced cameras and sensors, the drones can capture high-resolution underwater images and detect any suspicious activity or hazards.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has prioritised a comprehensive security strategy for Mahakumbh 2025, emphasising the need for surveillance in the water to complement existing measures on land and air.
An expert team, appointed by the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Mahakumbh Nagar, will oversee the operation of these underwater drones, ensuring immediate responses to potential threats.
Tethered Drones For Aerial Monitoring
Another milestone in this year’s security arrangements is the introduction of tethered drones. These drones are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including high-resolution cameras, sensors, and real-time data transmission systems. Designed to provide an expansive aerial view, the drones will capture detailed images and videos of Mahakumbh Nagar, covering areas such as ghats, roads, temples, bridges, and congregation zones.
The tethered drones are linked to a central command system, ensuring secure and uninterrupted data transmission. Their precision technology enables them to alert the police within seconds of detecting any irregularities, ensuring swift action. Twenty drones have been deployed across key locations for continuous monitoring, with a dedicated expert team ensuring seamless operation.
Integrated Surveillance Across All Sectors
With Mahakumbh 2025 expanding its fair area to an unprecedented 4,000 hectares and adding 25 sectors, security has been scaled up accordingly. Real-time surveillance will extend to airports, railways, bus stations, and other critical infrastructure, with drones playing a pivotal role in maintaining strict vigilance.
One-click access to updates across these 25 sectors has been introduced, enabling authorities to monitor and manage activities efficiently. From crowd control to detecting emergencies, the system promises unparalleled oversight during the event.
Comparative Security Growth Over the Years
It may be noted that the scale of Mahakumbh has expanded significantly over the years, with key security metrics highlighting the government’s dedication to creating a safe and well-organised environment for pilgrims.
The fair area has grown from 1,932 hectares in 2013 to an impressive 4,000 hectares in 2025, reflecting the event’s increasing magnitude. The number of police stations has nearly doubled, rising from 30 in 2013 to 56 in 2025, while police chowkis have seen a remarkable expansion from 40 to 155 during the same period.
Fire stations have also been increased from 30 in 2013 to 50 in 2025. This systematic growth underscores a comprehensive approach to managing the escalating number of attendees, ensuring both their safety and convenience at this grand spiritual gathering.
Multi-Layered Security Framework
The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented a robust multi-layered security framework for Mahakumbh 2025, covering land, air, and water to ensure the safety of millions of pilgrims. This includes the deployment of advanced technology such as drones, high-resolution surveillance cameras, and state-of-the-art communication systems for real-time monitoring and swift response to potential threats.
The security infrastructure has been significantly expanded with the addition of new police stations, chowkis, and fire stations, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the vast fair area. Dedicated expert teams have been appointed to oversee critical operations, including drone surveillance, to enhance situational awareness.
Furthermore, over 5,000 personnel, comprising police officers, paramilitary forces, and disaster management teams, will be stationed to maintain order and manage contingencies, guaranteeing the smooth and secure execution of this massive spiritual event.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has reiterated his commitment to ensuring that Mahakumbh 2025 is not only a spiritual success but also a model of safety and efficiency. Speaking at a recent press briefing, he said, “Mahakumbh 2025 will showcase the perfect amalgamation of tradition and modernity. Our focus is on creating an environment where devotees can experience the spiritual essence of the event without worrying about their safety.”
Ensuring Pilgrim Safety and Comfort
In addition to security measures, the administration has undertaken efforts to ensure the comfort of pilgrims. Temporary shelters, medical facilities, and sanitation services have been scaled up significantly. Special attention has been given to managing crowd density at key points, such as ghats and temples, with the help of AI-powered crowd control systems.
As millions of devotees prepare to converge on Prayagraj for this spiritual gathering, they can do so with the assurance that their safety is in capable hands. Mahakumbh 2025 is set to become not only a celebration of faith but also a benchmark for security and event management on a global scale.
Author: Tarannum Manjul