TED: A life-saving invention that prevents human stampedes | Nilay Kulkarni

The video discusses the challenges of managing large crowds at the Nashik Kumbh Mela, a major religious gathering in India. Inspired by past tragedies, a young innovator developed Ashioto, a system using pressure sensors to monitor crowd flow and prevent stampedes. The system was successfully implemented in 2015, marking the first Kumbh Mela without casualties. The video highlights the development process, testing, and future aspirations to apply this technology globally to ensure safety at large events.

What was the main purpose of the Kumbh Mela gathering in Nashik?

• To wash away sins by bathing in the river

• To celebrate the harvest season

• To conduct a large trade fair

• To hold a cultural festival

What was the initial reaction to the idea of using radio-frequency tokens to manage the crowd?

• It was considered too expensive and impractical

• It was immediately implemented

• It was rejected due to privacy concerns

• It was successful in small-scale tests

What was the primary function of the Ashioto system?

• To sell tickets for the event

• To offer medical assistance

• To count the number of people and send data in real-time

• To provide entertainment for the crowd

What material was used to cover the sensors to prevent people from being scared?

• Metal sheets

• Colored fabric

• Black neoprene rubber

• Transparent plastic

What was a key design consideration for the Ashioto mat to prevent tripping?

• It had to be transparent

• It had to be colorful

• It had to be no higher than 12 millimeters

• It had to be made of wood

How did the Ashioto system help during the 2015 Nashik Kumbh Mela?

• It provided free Wi-Fi to attendees

• It ensured a safe flow of people by monitoring crowd density

• It offered discounts on local transportation

• It organized cultural performances

What is the future vision for the Ashioto system?

• To be used for entertainment purposes

• To be sold as a commercial product

• To be adapted for global events to prevent stampedes

• To be used only in Nashik