AI, Drones and CCTV to Strengthen Security During Dasara Celebrations

The Andhra Pradesh Police Department is making extensive use of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern technology to strengthen devotee safety, crowd management and traffic regulation during the Dasara Sharannavaratri celebrations at the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Temple on Indrakeeladri in Vijayawada. State Director General of Police (DGP) Harish Kumar Gupta said the department was using AI more extensively this year to monitor the large influx of devotees. Speaking to the media after offering prayers to Goddess Kanaka Durga on Wednesday, he explained that AI-based crowd analysis would help officials assess the movement of devotees, identify areas likely to become congested and alert personnel when necessary.

Police are also using drones and CCTV cameras to monitor the hill, ghat roads, queue lines, parking areas and other busy locations. The surveillance systems are connected to a central monitoring facility to help officials assess situations and respond quickly. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and boom barriers are being used to regulate vehicle entry and ease traffic congestion around the temple. The police command and control centre coordinates crowd management, traffic diversions and emergency responses. Officials have urged devotees to follow police instructions, maintain discipline in queues and avoid unauthorised routes. DGP Gupta said that combining technology with on-ground police deployment and coordination among government departments was essential to ensuring a safe and comfortable darshan. Temple Executive Officer Sheena Naik and Vijayawada Police Commissioner Rajasekhar Babu accompanied the DGP.