AI-Powered Security Ensures Child Safety at Rath Yatra

Ahmedabad, Gujarat –  As lakhs of devotees poured into the streets of Ahmedabad for the grand Rath Yatra 2025, the Gujarat police deployed cutting-edge AI technology to ensure children’s safety, successfully preventing separation incidents and setting a national precedent in crowd monitoring.

The Rath Yatra, stretching over a 16-kilometre route, witnesses an overwhelming rush as families, often overcome by spiritual fervour, momentarily lose sight of their children. In previous years, dozens of children were separated from their families, triggering panic amid the sea of devotees.

“Last year, 65 children were reported lost during the Rath Yatra. Thanks to quick action, we reunited every child with their family,” said Minister of State for Home, Harsh Sanghvi, in a social media post. “This year, we ensured zero separations by deploying AI-powered surveillance systems for the first time in India during a religious procession.”

Smart Technology in Action

This year, Gujarat Police leveraged artificial intelligence, 3D mapping, GPS tracking, and real-time video analytics to maintain tight control over the massive event. AI-enabled monitoring systems helped identify and flag movement patterns where children could potentially get lost.

A GPS system was installed on chariots and akhadas to provide real-time tracking, ensuring better coordination. Meanwhile, 17 Jan Sahayata Kendras (public help centers) were strategically placed along the route, offering immediate assistance to families and especially small children in distress.

Special Attention to Children and Women’s Safety

Dedicated teams of women police officers and child safety volunteers were stationed across the route. These officers were trained in child psychology and were given live feeds from surveillance systems to act instantly if a child was spotted wandering.

“We weren’t just watching a screen—we were watching out for every child,” said a senior police officer from the control room. “Every alert mattered. Every child mattered.”

Public Reassurance and Devotee Delight

The AI-based child safety initiative received praise from the public, especially from parents who were relieved to see authorities prioritize safety without disrupting spiritual festivities.

“I brought my two kids this year with complete peace of mind,” said Bhavana Patel, a devotee from Naroda. “It’s incredible how technology can make our faith celebrations safer.”