The local administration in Ahmedabad has finalized a comprehensive security plan for the upcoming 149th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath. This plan includes advanced measures such as AI-powered facial recognition, live elephant tracking, and anti-drone systems to ensure the safety of the annual procession on Ashadhi Bij. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi chaired a meeting to review these security arrangements, emphasizing the importance of peaceful and secure conduct of the Rath Yatra.
Authorities, including top officials like the Director General of Police and the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner, discussed various security aspects during the meeting. Sanghavi instructed the police and civil administration to be fully prepared for the event, focusing on police deployment, traffic management, emergency response, and coordination among different agencies. The use of technology alongside traditional policing methods was highlighted to strengthen security measures during the procession.
New initiatives introduced this year for the Rath Yatra include the ‘Gajrakshak Smart Tracking System’ to monitor the safety and location of participating elephants and the ‘Pratiraksha’ application for Aadhaar-based verification of truck operators and akhada organizers. Security measures also involve AI-powered facial recognition, anti-drone systems, jammer teams, and live surveillance through a network of CCTV cameras along the procession route. The security agencies presented a detailed action plan to ensure law and order and the smooth conduct of one of Ahmedabad’s significant religious events.
