Overview The Tamil Nadu police have deployed Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to manage crowd and vehicular movement at Tiruvannamalai during the Kathigai Deepam festival on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 . This marks the first time AI is being used for crowd management in the state, aiming to enhance safety and efficiency during the large gathering. Key Developments AI Implementation Previous Experience: The State police have collaborated with IT experts who previously implemented AI-driven applications for crowd management at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj . Technology Integration: The AI technology is integrated with hundreds of CCTV cameras installed along roads leading to the Arunachaleswarar Temple , mada streets, the girivalam route, and other key points in Tiruvannamalai. Real-time Alerts: Unlike 2024 , where security personnel relied on live CCTV feeds, the control room will now receive timely alerts on potential overcrowding or stampede situations, enabling quicker intervention by ground forces. Crowd Density Monitoring Alert System: The system triggers crowd density alerts based on international standards, categorizing a gathering of 4-5 people per square meter as a critical point where congestion and safety risks significantly increase. Data Accuracy: According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Dhanush Kumar , the AI-driven technology provides an accurate count (approximately 95% accuracy ) of people and vehicles in a specific location at any given time. Response Teams: Special teams have been stationed at various locations to respond promptly to crowd density alerts, mitigating potential stampede situations. Vehicular Traffic Management Traffic Monitoring: Police teams managing vehicular traffic will receive alerts from the AI tool regarding the number of vehicles entering the town and parking lots. Camera Coverage: Cameras have been installed in 35 out of 100 parking areas and 11 important bus stands in the town to monitor traffic flow. Additional Measures Assistance Booths: Numerous police assistance booths have been established in visible locations. Hotline Booths: Hotline telephone booths connecting directly to the control room have been set up at 10 locations for people to seek immediate police assistance. Aerial Surveillance: Drones will provide live aerial feeds of the festival venue and its surroundings, similar to previous years. Official Review Senior officers, including Inspector-General of Police (North Zone) Asra Garg , Deputy Inspector-General of Police (Vellore Range) G. Dharmarajan , and Superintendent of Police (Tiruvannamalai) M. Sudhakar , have reviewed the security arrangements and contingency plans for the event. ‘Deepam 2025’ App Features: The ‘Deepam 2025’ app provides details on available facilities for devotees, including medical camps, ambulance locations, anna danam locations, and contact numbers for emergency situations. Real-time Data: Real-time data captured by the systems will be accessible to the public, according to Mr. Kumar . UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS3 (Science and Technology, Disaster Management) and GS1 (Indian Culture) . It showcases the use of technology in managing large gatherings and ensuring public safety, which are important aspects of governance and disaster preparedness. Key Takeaways for UPSC AI in Governance: Demonstrates the application of AI in improving governance and public safety. Disaster Management: Highlights the use of technology in preventing stampedes and managing crowds during large events. Cultural Significance: Provides context on the Kathigai Deepam festival, relevant to Indian culture and traditions.