Sultan Bathery: With the rising summer heat, wild animals, including elephants, are frequently venturing into human settlements in search of food. In response, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has introduced advanced preventive measures, including the installation of AI-powered cameras in high-conflict areas.
As part of this initiative, the Gudalur Division of the Forest Department will install AI automatic cameras at 36 identified locations at a cost of ₹6 crore. In the first phase, these cameras will be placed in O’Valley, Puliyampara, Kozhipalam, Devan, Allur, Melambalam, and other high-risk zones.
These AI cameras will provide real-time alerts to the Forest Department and local residents when elephants approach human settlements. Villagers can receive images and notifications by sharing their phone numbers with the department. This early warning system will help both authorities and locals stay vigilant, making it easier to track elephant movements and take preventive measures.
Currently, forest watchers patrol the affected areas, but AI-powered monitoring will allow them to be deployed more efficiently. The precise detection of elephant movement will enable swift response and better protection of both wildlife and human settlements. Despite continuous day and night patrols, elephant intrusions into villages remain a frequent concern.
With the help of AI technology, the Forest Department aims to improve monitoring, enhance safety, and implement proactive measures to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts in the Nilgiris region.
