Prayagraj: In a first, the 30-odd pontoon bridges set to come up during the Maha Kumbh will be under 24/7 surveillance with the help of network of AI-enabled CCTV cameras. The move will ensure that the pontoon bridges, which are extensively used by pilgrims during the mega religious affair, are safe and secure. “These AI-enabled CCTVs would not only maintain a vigil on these bridges but will also assess and evaluate the number of commuters and vehicles to ensure that they do not exceed the sustainable payload.
In case of an emergency or the possibility of surpassing the load capacity, these CCTVs would send a warning signal to the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) so that officials can take corrective measures,” said mela authorities. The Maha Kumbh is expected to attract over 40 crore visitors. During Kumbh 2019, Prayagraj Mela Authorities had constructed 22 pontoon bridges across both river Ganga and Yamuna.
For Maha Kumbh-2025, eight additional pontoon bridges will be constructed. “The personnel stationed in the control room will keep an eye on them through these cameras. If there is a large crowd or a jam-like situation at any bridge, security officials will be immediately informed.
Engineers are also making plans to construct these bridges and special attention is being paid towards their strength,” they said. The load capacity of the pontoon bridges will be 5 tonnes. If the load increases beyond that, the risk of the bridge sustaining damage increases.
Officials said the shape of these bridges, i.e., the width will remain the same whereas the length will depend on the span of the river at that time.
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