General Info

How the Crowd at Maha Kumbh Mela Is Estimated: Methods and Technology

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The crowd count at Maha Kumbh Mela is calculated using a combination of traditional and modern techniques. Since millions of devotees attend, estimating the number accurately requires multiple methods. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Aerial and Satellite Imaging

  • Drones and satellite images are used to analyze crowd density in different areas of the Kumbh Mela.

  • Authorities compare the images taken at different time intervals to estimate movement and gathering sizes.

2. AI-Based Crowd Analysis

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) models analyze live video feeds from CCTV cameras placed at key locations.

  • These models estimate the number of people passing through specific points.

3. RFID and GPS Tracking

  • Some large-scale events use RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags in wristbands or tickets for monitoring attendees.

  • GPS tracking of vehicles and foot traffic helps estimate overall numbers.

4. Mobile Network Data

  • Telecom companies analyze mobile tower connections to estimate the number of active phones in the region.

  • While not 100% accurate, it gives a real-time estimate of mobile users present at the site.

5. Entry and Exit Points Counting

  • Officials manually count the number of people entering and exiting through major gateways and ghats.

  • Sensors, infrared counters, and turnstile gates may assist in high-traffic areas.

6. Ground Surveys and Crowd Density Mapping

  • Policemen and volunteers manually estimate numbers based on average crowd density per square meter in various zones.

  • Past data from previous Kumbh Melas helps in refining these estimates.

7. Police and Local Administration Estimates

  • Police officials and government agencies use drone footage, footfall estimates, and vehicle counts to give official attendance figures.

Past Estimates of Maha Kumbh Mela Attendance:

  • 2013 (Allahabad) – Estimated 100 million+ people over 55 days.

  • 2001 (Allahabad) – Around 70 million attendees.

  • 1989 (Allahabad) – Estimated 30 million people.

Conclusion

The calculation of Maha Kumbh Mela attendance is a mix of technology, data analysis, and traditional crowd estimation methods. While no method is perfectly accurate, a combination of these techniques provides a reliable estimate of the world’s largest religious gathering. 🚩