Special software to be used to track Gangasagar buses & vessels
To enhance crowd control at the 2024 Gangasagar Mela, beginning January 15, the South 24-Parganas district administration is set to employ the PTMS (Pilgrim Transport Management System) software for the first time.
This software will be integrated into the mega-control room located at Sagar Island, allowing the tracking of the movement of all buses and vessels traveling to and from the island.
GPS tracking systems have been installed in all buses and vessels, and the police has access to the contact information of bus drivers and vessel pilots. Utilising PTMS, they will be easily able to establish communication with them.
If any instances of overcrowding in buses or vessels is detected, necessary directives will be issued to ensure the efficient management of pilgrims.
Additionally, the district administration is collaborating with ISRO to monitor the movement of vessels transporting pilgrims to and from Sagar Island.
Video footage will be captured from 15 designated buffer zones employing 1100 CCTV cameras within the control room. These buffer zones encompass a dozen locations stretching from Babughat to Lot-8, and singular zones situated in Namkhana, Chemaguri, Benubon, Kachuberia and Sagar.
A specialised software installed in the control room’s computer system will provide real-time statistics on the number of pilgrims arriving via different routes to Sagar.
Administrative officers will be equipped with walkie-talkies, enabling immediate communication in case of additional crowds, triggering messages for prompt intervention.
The mega control room is fully equipped with video conferencing capabilities, an integrated communications centre, a 24×7 hotline and a separate chamber designated for the district magistrate.
