Building on the technological innovations introduced during Mahakumbh 2025, the upcoming 44-day Magh Mela 2026 is set to unfold on an unprecedented high-tech scale. Authorities are gearing up to install around 200 AI-enabled, infrared, high-resolution cameras at strategic crowd-movement points across the seven sectors of the sprawling fairground.
Linked to the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC), these cameras will provide real-time monitoring to ensure smoother crowd management and enhanced safety.
“The cameras will be equipped with night vision infrared capability for 24x7 surveillance. Each camera, costing around ₹40,000– ₹55,000, will include the cost of internet bandwidth, cabling, speed routers, AI software, etc. The customised software receiving feeds from all cameras will assess crowd density per square meter and detect surges, using colour-coded as well as pop-up alerts,” said Mani Shanker Tripathi, IT manager for the Smart City initiative.
The green zones indicate normal crowd density while yellow zones will indicate caution requiring crowd diversion from that area. Red indicates excess crowd density requiring immediate halt of movement till crowd pressure is eased on the route ahead.
This upgrade, never witnessed in an annual Magh Mela, comes in the wake of the tragic stampede during Mahakumbh 2025, which claimed several lives. Officials believe these measures will lay the foundation for a mishap-free Kumbh 2031.
{{/usCountry}}This upgrade, never witnessed in an annual Magh Mela, comes in the wake of the tragic stampede during Mahakumbh 2025, which claimed several lives. Officials believe these measures will lay the foundation for a mishap-free Kumbh 2031.
{{/usCountry}}In another major technological leap, QR codes will be installed on all 21,917 electricity poles within the Mela area. Pilgrims can scan these codes for instant GPS-based location identification, aiding navigation and enabling quick reporting of power faults for faster response.
Magh Mela 2026, beginning on Paush Purnima (January 3) and concluding on Mahashivratri (February 15), is expected to draw 12–15 crore pilgrims, with a daily footfall of 20–25 lakh visitors. Spread across 800 hectares, the fair will be divided into seven sectors with 42 designated parking zones for visitors arriving via multiple routes.