GIS, coupled with 1,500 video cameras, are being deployed to control crowds during the yearly pilgrimmage to Mecca. The technology allows authorities to monitor crowds and to get a clear idea of the number of pilgrims moving toward the Jamarat and from what direction.
This technology is particularly critical near the Jamaraat Bridge where more than a million people can gather and fatal accidents have occurred in the past. The bridge enables pilgrims to throw stones at the three jamrah pillars. In 2004, 251 pilgrims were killed in a stampede, and more than 346 pilgrims were killed in a stampede in the area in 2006.
Read more about this deployment of technology here.
