Ram Mandir Inauguration: AI Likely To Be Integral Security Tool In Ayodhya. What We Know So Far

Besides AI surveillance, 11,000 state police and paramilitary forces are likely to be deployed for the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla.

As pilgrim footfalls are expected to increase significantly in Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya after the inauguration of Ram Temple on January 22, the officials are planning to install artificial intelligence (AI) surveillance for security purposes. “The pilot project of AI surveillance is likely to be launched for Ayodhya. After some time, if found feasible, it could be made an integral part of the security and surveillance drill,” a senior police official said.

According to police officials, AI surveillance could help in detecting frequent visitors, any common trend followed by a group of people, or any other suspicious trend spotted within the temple premises. “A security alert would be raised automatically, and security agencies would be able to follow up,” he added.

He said the Uttar Pradesh Police have already intensified manual as well as social media vigilance in the buildup to the consecration ceremony.

“The security scheme for the January 22 event is yet to be finalised,” the official said.

Besides AI surveillance, 11,000 state police and paramilitary forces are likely to be deployed for the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla.

The senior police official further said that 26 companies of paramilitary and PAC, along with nearly 8,000 civil police personnel, are likely to attend the event. 

“UP Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) and Special Task Force teams and central agencies like National Security Guards are also going to be deployed,” he added.

Notably, AI is implemented in machines to perform tasks that require human intelligence, with some of their primary functions like reasoning, learning, problem-solving, and quick decision-making.

It is quite evident in advanced facial recognition tools that can scan large crowds, detect unusual behaviours, analyse vast data sets, instantly pinpoint potential threats, detect anomalies, and raise alarms for advanced surveillance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the virtual G20 Summit, also pitched for the development of AI for the needs of people. “AI should be developed keeping in mind the needs of people. AI should reach people, and it must be safe for society," he further added.

However, the manual as well as video surveillance are already in place in the red zone where Ram Temple is located, the officials said. 

“About 38 officers of the local intelligence unit have been deployed there to keep vigil on every movement,” he added.

He also said the verification process of every individual, from taxi drivers, e-rickshaw drivers, hotel staff, beggars, priests, and residents in the Ram temple vicinity, is being done, as well as guest lists of the event and people or staff accompanying them was being verified.

“For the day of the event, traffic diversions will be made on all roads heading towards Ayodhya. These road stretches will be made free of encroachments to ensure visitors do not face any problems,” the official said.