Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine
700 cameras deployed, system equipped with AI-based analytics, automatically detect emergencies
Jammu: The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the CCTV Surveillance System with an Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, marking a major milestone in strengthening the security and management of the revered pilgrimage site.
Describing the project as a transformative initiative, the Lieutenant Governor said that the cutting-edge technology will enable real-time monitoring and effective crowd management, thereby ensuring the safety and security of devotees and facilitating a hassle-free pilgrimage.
He added that actionable insights from the system would allow for quick responses during emergencies and enable authorities to maintain optimal operational control throughout the Shrine area.
The Integrated Command & Control Centre, located at Katra, is supported by seven Sub-Control Centers strategically established along the pilgrimage track for localized monitoring and coordination.
This setup ensures round-the-clock surveillance of all vulnerable and high-traffic zones and empowers officials to respond proactively to situations such as crowd build-up, security breaches, or medical emergencies.
A total of over 700 cameras have been deployed under this surveillance project. This includes 170 new high-definition IP cameras, as well as the integration of more than 500 existing cameras, covering all critical locations such as entry and exit points, congregation areas, and the entire pilgrimage route.
The system is enhanced with AI-based analytics and advanced surveillance technologies such as gesture recognition, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), facial recognition, intrusion detection systems, and dedicated tools for crowd management.
CEO of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Anshul Garg, provided a comprehensive presentation on the technical capabilities of the ICCC and its anticipated role in improving the day-to-day operations of the Shrine.
He informed that the system is equipped to automatically detect and alert authorities in cases of crowd congestion, route blockages, landslides, or other emergencies, enabling faster and more informed decision-making.
During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor also interacted with the engineers and operational staff stationed at the Centre.
He underscored the importance of regular capacity-building training for staff and highlighted the need for seamless coordination between the command centre, security forces, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
In line with the broader vision of enhancing pilgrim security, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has also recently supplied advanced security equipment to agencies responsible for Yatra management.
These include X-Ray Baggage Scanners, Door Frame Metal Detectors, Hand-Held Metal Detectors, and Under Vehicle Search Mirrors and Scanners. These installations follow a comprehensive joint security review conducted last year under the directions of the Lieutenant Governor.
The inaugural event was attended by Dr. Ashok Bhan, Member of the Shrine Board; Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Ms. Nidhi Malik, Deputy Commissioner Reasi; and several senior officials from the police, security agencies, and the Shrine Board.
This technologically advanced initiative is expected to significantly enhance the overall pilgrimage experience, reinforcing Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine’s commitment to devotee safety, operational excellence, and spiritual serenity.
