As the highly anticipated Navratri festival draws near, the Ahmedabad Police, in collaboration with the Crime Branch, has introduced an advanced security plan to ensure public safety and the smooth execution of events. Navratri attracts massive crowds across the city, prompting authorities to put in place stringent security measures.
A total of over 3,000 CCTV cameras will be deployed throughout Ahmedabad during the festival nights. This includes traffic surveillance cameras, Nirbhaya Project cameras, Smart City CCTV systems, and additional portable cameras. Over 300 CCTV cameras will be installed in key locations to closely monitor crowded areas. The police will also integrate the camera networks of shops, hotels, and restaurants into the citywide system for comprehensive coverage. Event organisers have been directed to install their own cameras at venues, focusing particularly on entry and exit points to strengthen security.
Ajay Kumar Chaudhary, Special Commissioner of Ahmedabad, emphasised the city’s commitment to safety, stating, “More than 3,000 cameras will monitor Ahmedabad’s Navratri nights, ensuring that public spaces across the city are under surveillance. In addition, 20 portable cameras equipped with 3D mapping and artificial intelligence (AI) technology will enhance our ability to keep the city safe.”
In a coordinated effort, local police stations have been instructed to identify dark spots and blind spots in their respective areas. Temporary CCTV cameras will be installed in these isolated locations to ensure continuous coverage during the festival nights.
Himala Joshi, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) of the Mahila Crime Branch, highlighted the importance of thorough surveillance, “The safety of the public during these festive nights is our top priority. We have instructed organisers to cover their entire venues with surveillance, particularly at the main entry and exit points.”
Taking a technological leap, the Ahmedabad Police will utilise 3D mapping and AI technology to enhance their surveillance capabilities and improve incident response times. This cutting-edge technology will allow for real-time detection of disturbances, suspicious activity, or any potential safety concerns. In addition, mobile cameras in police vehicles and pocket cameras carried by officers will provide on-the-ground coverage of high-traffic areas throughout the city.