KOZHIKODE: For the first time in the history of Thrissur Pooram, a woman will spearhead the cybersecurity arrangements, specifically the CCTV surveillance cover, of what is one of the grandest cultural extravaganza in the country.
Shattering gender norms is Akhila Jijith, a technology architect hailing from Mankavu in Kozhikode. Along with her team, Akhila is currently busy ensuring a comprehensive CCTV surveillance system for the pooram on April 19. The CEO of Prago Advanced Technologies LLP, Akhila has carved a niche for herself in providing unparalleled CCTV coverage to major events across the region. However, she feels that Thrissur Pooram, a cultural extravaganza rivalling the Kumbh Mela in grandeur, poses unique challenges and security concerns.
“Thrissur Pooram attracts scores of people. Orchestrating surveillance for such a colossal event comes with its set of challenges. The festival’s location in the heart of Thrissur city, its open environment, last-minute plan changes, coordination with local authorities and the pooram committee, as well as the scorching sun pose immense challenges,” Akhila told TNIE.
Factor in the intricate wiring required for the cameras and any voltage fluctuations that may occur, and one may get an idea of the magnitude of the difficulty.
“Hence, from day one of setting up the camera to managing the control room of the pooram’s cyber cell it is a challenge for me as an upcoming entrepreneur,” she said.
However, Akhila has risen to the occasion. She said she has overseen integration of over 500 cameras across the city into a centralised monitoring cell exclusively dedicated to the event. The comprehensive surveillance setup, which ensures minimal blind spots, also serves as a testament to Akhila’s ingenuity and leadership.
“My husband Jijith, who has wide expertise in CCTV surveillance systems, is also helping me in this massive undertaking,” Akhil said.
The road to achieving foolproof security for the pooram was not easy for Akhila and her team. From navigating corporation’s permission hurdles to adapting to last-minute alterations such as demolition of VIP pavilions, they encountered obstacles along the way. Challenges like laying cables via elephant crossing zones and vedikettu areas further underscore the complexity of their endeavour.