The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine is set to become one of the safest and most secure pilgrimage destinations in India, thanks to the implementation of cutting-edge technology. Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, recently inaugurated a state-of-the-art CCTV surveillance system with an integrated command and control center, marking a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of devotees visiting the shrine.
The newly inaugurated system boasts a comprehensive network of over 700 cameras strategically deployed across the entire shrine area. This includes 170 new high-definition IP cameras and the integration of more than 500 existing cameras, ensuring that all critical and vulnerable locations are under constant surveillance. Entry and exit points, gathering areas, and the pilgrimage track are all monitored 24/7.
The surveillance system is not just about cameras; it's a sophisticated, AI-powered ecosystem. It incorporates advanced technology mechanisms such as:
The entire system is managed through an Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) located at Katra, with seven sub-control centers along the pilgrimage track for localized monitoring and coordination. This ensures round-the-clock vigilance over all vulnerable and high-traffic zones, enabling a proactive and prompt response to any untoward incidents, be it crowd build-up, security breaches, or medical emergencies. The ICCC is designed to generate automated alerts for various scenarios, including crowd congestion, route blockages, and landslides, enabling swift decision-making and response.
The benefits of this technology-driven initiative are manifold. Real-time monitoring and crowd management will significantly enhance the safety and security of devotees, ensuring a hassle-free pilgrimage. The actionable insights gleaned from the system will enable prompt responses to emergencies, optimizing operations and facilitating quick coordination with emergency responders. The large-scale surveillance and crowd management initiative will also improve crowd control measures and overall operational efficiency within the shrine area.
In addition to the advanced CCTV system, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has also provided advanced security equipment to the security agencies deployed for yatra management. This includes X-Ray baggage scanners, door frame metal detectors, hand-held metal detectors, and under vehicle search mirrors/scanners, further strengthening the security measures in the shrine area.
During the inauguration, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized the need for regular training of staff and seamless collaboration with security agencies and other stakeholders to maximize the utility of the center. He reiterated the commitment to leveraging technology to provide a safe, secure, and seamless pilgrimage experience for all devotees visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
With these cutting-edge technologies in place, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine is setting a new standard for security and safety at religious sites, ensuring a peaceful and fulfilling pilgrimage for millions of devotees every year.
