700 AI Cameras, 24/7 Monitoring: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off a major safety upgrade at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra. He inaugurated a ₹20-crore Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC), designed to enhance real-time monitoring and crowd management across the pilgrimage route.(700 AI Cameras, 24/7 Monitoring)
The core of the project is an advanced AI-backed surveillance network comprising over 700 CCTV cameras, including 170 new high-definition units. The system integrates facial and gesture recognition, automatic licence plate readers, intrusion detection, and crowd analytics all working together across one central ICCC and seven sub-control centres.
Sinha emphasized the impact of these tools: “Cutting-edge technology will enable real-time crowd management, enhance pilgrimage safety, and ensure a seamless journey for devotees.” The AI-powered system will generate automated alerts for crowd congestion, route blockages, landslides, or emergencies. Early detection aims to speed up response times and prevent potential incidents.
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Temple board officials presented key technology features during a demo highlighting its potential to transform shrine operations. The surveillance ecosystem connects with security teams on the ground, ensuring quick coordinated action during emergencies. It also improves vigilance against threats while streamlining everyday crowd control.
Besides the surveillance centre, the Shrine Board has deployed X-ray baggage scanners, metal detectors, handheld scanners, and under-vehicle search mirrors at entry points to strengthen physical security. Sinha also stressed the need for regular staff training and coordination with police and emergency services to ensure the system functions effectively.
Pilgrimage board officials have already set up UHF card systems for ponies and porters, numbering shops, and implementing hotline communications to streamline operations and prevent unauthorized access.
This new surveillance and security infrastructure reflects a strong focus on using modern technology to safeguard one of India’s most important pilgrimage sites. Devotees can expect more organised, safer journeys at Vaishno Devi, driven by innovation and proactive planning.
