400 AI Thermal Cameras with Facial Recognition to Help Reunite Missing Pilgrims at Sabarimala
Pathanamthitta: Sabarimala is set to introduce AI-powered thermal cameras to quickly locate pilgrims who become separated from their groups during the annual pilgrimage. As part of the new system, information centres at Nilakkal, Pampa and Sannidhanam will discontinue the practice of announcing the names of missing pilgrims over loudspeakers in multiple languages, bringing an end to the familiar "Wherever you are, come here" public announcements.
The Travancore Devaswom Board plans to install 400 AI-enabled thermal cameras along with supporting infrastructure across key locations in the pilgrimage zone. A prototype of the system was showcased during the Digital Conclave held in Kochi.
Every year, lakhs of devotees visit Sabarimala, and many—including children and elderly pilgrims—become separated from their companions amid the heavy rush. The AI-based surveillance system is intended to speed up search efforts and improve crowd management.
How the System Will Work
When a pilgrim goes missing, accompanying family members or companions will report the incident at an information centre. Officials will retrieve the pilgrim's photograph from the Virtual Queue registration database and upload it to the AI system.
The AI platform will then scan live feeds from all 400 thermal cameras. Once the individual is identified through facial recognition, the system will immediately alert the control room with the person's location. Security personnel will be dispatched to the spot, after which police will locate the pilgrim and reunite them with their group.
Camera Installation Locations
The AI thermal cameras will be installed at major pilgrimage and transit points, including:
Nilakkal: Parking ground and Chain Service Bus Stand.
Pampa: Bus stand, bathing ghat, Triveni Bridge and Ganapathy Temple.
Pampa–Sannidhanam Route: Neelimala, Appachimedu, Sabaripeedam, Marakkoottam, Queue Complex and Charalmedu.
Sannidhanam: Nadappanthal, Sopanam, Pathinettampadi (18 Holy Steps), Prasadam Counter, Annadanam Hall and Pandithavalam.
The new AI-based monitoring system is expected to significantly improve the safety of pilgrims while reducing reliance on manual announcements and making the process of locating missing devotees faster and more efficient