AI system helps facilitate Hajj pilgrims’ safe spiritual journey
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
Report by Julia Cassano
The Hajj is considered one of the largest, most physically demanding, and most complex gatherings in the world, which could pose some safety challenges.
However, with the use of artificial intelligence, streamlining the process and ensuring safety make it much easier.
Approximately 2–3 million people attend the Hajj pilgrimage each year, but by implementing special and advanced technologies, AI could assist in crowd control, preventing serious health issues, and easing communication during the ritual.
This year, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has smoothed the holy expedition with AI robots for monitoring the positions of the pilgrims, disinfecting surrounding areas of the holiest sites, and guiding Muslims in the correct directions in multiple languages.
Crowd control
Speaking to The Daily Tribune, Dr. Jassim Haji, an AI expert, revealed how AI improves the safety of a demanding and complex process regarding safety measures.
He said that AI can play a significant role in crowd control by analysing data from different devices like surveillance cameras, mobile devices, and social media.
"These tools can monitor crowd congestion points and density, providing alerts to stewards for potential stampede risks. Also, this information can help in efficient crowd control and help provide pilgrims safety," Dr. Jassim said.
Not only do AI and unique technologies help ensure crowd control, but the AI expert also revealed that they can also assist in decision-making. "Based on previous data collected, you can predict the quota of pilgrims at any given point by providing insight into the requirements of safety and security measures for control groups," he said.
Additionally, technologies used during the Hajj can study patterns and trends that would help the authorities optimise crowd management strategies and enhance the overall smoothness of the pilgrimage.
"It is essential to maximise the effectiveness of safety measures during a large gathering as such," Dr. Jassim noted. "Effectively managing the transportation and logistics network during Hajj using AI can help manage the flow of traffic and reduce wait times for public transport by coordinating bus schedules."
This is where AI can come in and assist in flows. By analysing traffic patterns and tendencies, AI can provide alternative routes for buses and other vehicles, avoiding choke points. Moreover, traffic congestion delays can also be avoided by using special technologies to the best of their abilities.
Health
Most importantly, Dr. Jassim noted how AI can be used to track vital signs and anomalies and provide early warning signals to the medical crews, providing the exact position and location of the affected pilgrim. "This helps in providing timely assistance and mitigates emergencies," the AI expert said.
Language barriers
Muslims travel from all over the world to perform this religious duty. And with this, believers will have different linguistic backgrounds.
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