Varanasi Selects Sustainable Cities Challenge Winners, to Implement Crowd Management Measures

Varanasi Nagar Nigam, in partnership with the Toyota Mobility Foundation, Challenge Works, and WRI India, has selected two primary solutions to scale crowd management and pedestrian mobility across the historic Kashi area.

A Two-Year Search for the Right Technology

The selected platforms, CityFlow and Janjatra, emerged from a two-year evaluation process aimed at handling pedestrian flow and congestion in dense heritage precincts.

CityFlow: Computer Vision and Generative AI Watch the Streets in Real Time

CityFlow, developed by CITYDATA.AI and Nippon Koei, utilizes computer vision, big data, and generative AI to monitor crowd movement in real time and assist local authorities in responding to congestion points. Janjatra, created by The Urbanizer, integrates color-coded wayfinding, dynamic digital signage, and tactical urban interventions to redirect pedestrian traffic along key routes.

In addition, two other platforms received honorable mentions: Behtarway by VOGIC AI (an AI pedestrian navigation tool) and Nayichaal by Prameya Consulting (focused on accessibility for vulnerable populations). The winning teams will receive financial and advisory assistance to roll out their systems across the old city.