In a groundbreaking move, Tamil Nadu forest officials in Hosur have installed an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven system to monitor wild elephants. This initiative aims to protect villagers, farmers, and motorists during the annual elephant migration season.
This AI-triggered system emits alarms as soon as wild elephants leave the forest and enter villages. It helps residents take immediate action to avoid harm. Elephant movements are tracked in real time at a centralized monitoring hub in Hosur. This also displays alerts on giant screens along the Chennai-Bengaluru highway to inform passing motorists.
Drones equipped with thermal cameras operate during
night hours to track the elephants. This provides crucial data and ensures round-the-clock monitoring.
TACKLING THE MIGRATION CHALLENGE
Between October and January, around 200 to 250 elephants migrate from Karnataka to Tamil Nadu. This migratory pattern often leads to conflicts in villages near the forest. Javalagiri and Denganikottai ranges in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary face the most damage. Crop raids by elephants cause heavy losses for farmers, while accidental trampling incidents pose risks to human lives.
WHY AI MATTERS IN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
The primary goal is to prevent loss of human life. By providing prompt warnings, it ensures the safety of both villagers and motorists. Farmers bear the brunt of elephant raids during migration. With AI monitoring, authorities can intervene faster, reducing losses. This is India’s first attempt to use AI specifically for wildlife monitoring. It signifies a significant leap in managing human-wildlife interactions.
THE ROLE OF DRONES AND THERMAL IMAGING
Drones fitted with thermal cameras enhance nighttime monitoring. This advanced surveillance tracks elephant groups even in dense forests, providing critical insights into their movement patterns.
Over time, the system will collect data on elephant behavior and migratory routes. This information will help forest officials develop better conflict mitigation strategies.
LONG-TERM VISION
The second year of monitoring, starting in October-November, will offer deeper insights into elephant patterns. These findings could guide similar projects in other regions.
IMPACT AND EXPECTATIONS
By combining AI and drone technology, Tamil Nadu is setting a benchmark in wildlife conservation. The system protects both humans and elephants, fostering coexistence.
This initiative could inspire similar projects in regions facing human-wildlife conflicts. The success of Hosur’s system may pave the way for nationwide adoption.
