AI-powered Drones Watch Over Ayodhya to Detect Mine Threats

• Blockchain Council
• September 13, 2024

Ayodhya, a historic Indian city deeply entrenched in the hearts of millions, has transformed into a fortified stronghold as it prepares for the momentous ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony at the Shri Ram Mandir. With an array of security measures in place, including NSG snipers, 10,000 CCTV cameras, and AI-powered drones, the city is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety and sanctity of this historic event.

In this unprecedented show of security, the Uttar Pradesh Police, in collaboration with central forces like the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), is orchestrating a multi-layered security operation. Director General (DG) of Law and Order, Prashant Kumar, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “The ‘pran pratishtha’ ceremony, which will be held on Monday, is going to be a historic event. For this, the Uttar Pradesh Police has made elaborate security arrangements.”

Security, as Kumar pointed out, extends across every road in the entire red and yellow zones, as well as the Ayodhya district. To achieve this, technology has become a vital tool, with 10,000 CCTV cameras deployed throughout the district. In some of these cameras, AI-based technology is used, allowing for stringent monitoring of commuters. This extensive security operation is not without its challenges, with traffic diversions from surrounding districts, strict access controls, and drones playing a pivotal role in crowd control and management.

Drones have taken center stage in Ayodhya’s security landscape. Operating at a mere one meter above the ground, AI-equipped drones are keeping a watchful eye on the city. These drones do not just conduct aerial surveillance but are also equipped with the ability to detect mines or explosives on the ground, adding an extra layer of security to the proceedings.

This remarkable deployment of technology is a testament to the Uttar Pradesh Police’s commitment to ensuring the safety and sanctity of the Ram Mandir inauguration. It underscores their readiness to embrace cutting-edge solutions in their quest to maintain law and order.

The AI-powered drones and cameras are a testament to India’s technological prowess. They offer a sophisticated security system that helps ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the historic event. Staqu Technologies, a Gurugram-based startup specializing in AI-based video analytics and surveillance solutions, provided these AI-powered drones and cameras. The company’s AI software, Jarvis, has transformed existing cameras into intelligent surveillance tools. This innovation allows real-time analysis of video feeds and immediate alerts to authorities in case of any anomalies or threats.

Jarvis, with its advanced features like face recognition, vehicle recognition, object detection, crowd analysis, and sentiment analysis, has become an invaluable asset in maintaining security. Moreover, Jarvis integrates seamlessly with police databases, enabling the identification of criminals or suspects in the crowd. Its cross-camera tracking capabilities assist law enforcement in tracking individuals or vehicles across multiple cameras.

The extensive security measures are not just about protecting dignitaries but also about safeguarding the deep-rooted emotions and faith of millions of devotees. The inauguration of the Ram Mandir marks the culmination of a decades-long struggle, making it a momentous occasion that resonates with people on a personal level.

A day before the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony, Ayodhya has been divided into Red and Yellow Zones, with various elite security units deployed across the city. The Special Protection Group (SPG), National Security Guard (NSG) Black Cat Commandos, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Cobra, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are working in tandem to ensure a safe and peaceful ceremony.

The city’s skyline is dotted with snipers positioned strategically on rooftops and other vantage points, ensuring every angle is covered. Intelligence agencies like RAW and the Intelligence Bureau are closely monitoring operations. Traffic diversions from surrounding districts and strict access controls have been implemented, allowing only authorized vehicles into Ayodhya.

Over 100 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), nearly 325 inspectors, and 800 sub-inspectors from different state districts are stationed in Ayodhya. In addition, 11,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed. VIP security is a top priority, with three Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs), 17 Superintendents of Police (SPs), 40 Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs), 82 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), and 90 inspectors assigned, along with more than 1,000 constables and four company PACs.

Ayodhya’s streets are lined with 250 police guides, providing devotees with information about tourist attractions. The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented an Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) and installed numerous CCTV cameras, control rooms, and public CCTV to ensure the temple’s security is impenetrable.

An anti-drone system utilizing AI technology is fully operational, adding an extra layer of security to the event. This comprehensive security apparatus reflects the meticulous planning and execution that has gone into ensuring the Ram Mandir inauguration proceeds without any security glitches.

While preparations for this grand event are underway, it is essential to address the issue of misinformation and false content. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory to social media platforms and media outlets, cautioning them against spreading false content related to the ceremony. The advisory recognizes that “certain unverified, provocative, and fake messages were being spread, especially on social media, which can disturb communal harmony and public order.”

In light of this, social media platforms are urged to make reasonable efforts to prevent the dissemination of false information. Newspapers and private satellite TV channels are also advised to refrain from publishing content that could disrupt communal harmony or public order in the country.

As the grand event approaches, fake messages regarding VIP invitations and donation drives continue to circulate on social media. It is crucial for all stakeholders to act responsibly and contribute to the peaceful and joyous celebration of this historic moment in Ayodhya’s history.

The security measures in place for the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya are a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Uttar Pradesh Police and other security agencies. The use of AI-powered drones and cameras showcases India’s technological prowess and its willingness to embrace cutting-edge solutions in maintaining law and order during significant events. As millions of devotees eagerly await the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol, these security measures ensure that the event proceeds smoothly, safeguarding both the physical and emotional well-being of all involved.