At Tirupati Temple, AI To Take Over Crowd Control, Darshan Management

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to unveil an innovative Artificial Intelligence-Integrated Command Control Centre (ICC) at the renowned Tirumala Tirupati temple.

This groundbreaking initiative represents the first of its kind for a major temple in India, with claims that it will transform crowd management and pilgrim services at this sacred hill shrine.

Located at the Vaikuntham-1 Complex, the new ICC harnesses artificial intelligence to deliver real-time analytics and information to TTD officials. The facility features a comprehensive digital display screen showing live footage from CCTV cameras positioned throughout the temple grounds, with constant monitoring by a dedicated team of over 25 technical specialists.

The sophisticated AI-enabled cameras incorporate facial recognition technology to monitor pilgrim numbers in queue lines and calculate anticipated waiting times for darshan, enabling officials to manage devotee flow with greater efficiency.

Additionally, the system generates three-dimensional maps displaying ground conditions and highlighting congested areas, while proposing solutions to alleviate overcrowding.

This advanced technology will aid in identifying individuals involved in theft or other incidents. It can also help locate missing persons, and with additional cameras strategically installed at locations such as Alipiri, the AI system can track pilgrim influx from the very beginning of their journey.

The AI will process data from multiple sources to forecast peak visitation hours, allowing Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) to optimize resource allocation and enhance the overall darshan scheduling.

The system is capable of analyzing facial expressions and non-verbal cues from pilgrims to detect potential issues they may be experiencing, facilitating quicker responses from TTD personnel. During emergencies, the AI will also indicate the most efficient evacuation routes for devotees.

This project, which has been under development for several months, received significant backing from NRIs and was an important topic of discussion during Andhra Pradesh minister Nara Lokesh's US visit last year.

According to TTD officials, the AI implementation will enhance security measures while substantially reducing manual processing requirements, resulting in a safer, more efficient, and more comfortable experience for all pilgrims.