The southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has implemented an innovative AI-based surveillance system to address the escalating issue of elephant deaths on its railway tracks. With 36 fatalities recorded in the past decade due to train collisions, the state has undertaken proactive measures to mitigate this crisis. The utilization of artificial intelligence marks a significant advancement in wildlife conservation efforts, particularly in safeguarding the lives of endangered species like elephants.
The implementation of the AI-based surveillance system follows a surge in elephant fatalities, particularly along railway tracks near Madukkarai, where forest borders intersect migratory routes. In response to a court order, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has installed 12 towers equipped with AI cameras along these tracks. These cameras, boasting thermal and visible light imaging capabilities, are akin to those employed by the Indian Army along the nation’s borders. Programmed to detect elephants within 100ft of railway tracks, the AI system alerts forest and railway officials, facilitating timely interventions to prevent collisions. The project, launched in February, represents a concerted effort to enhance wildlife protection through technological innovation. With a cost of 72.4 million rupees, the system has already demonstrated its efficacy, detecting nearly 400 instances of elephants approaching railway tracks within months of implementation. Such proactive measures underscore the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the preservation of natural habitats.
The adoption of AI-based surveillance systems heralds a new era in wildlife conservation in Tamil Nadu. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the state aims to reduce train-related accidents involving elephants and other wildlife significantly. The success of the project in Madukkarai has paved the way for its expansion to other vulnerable areas, signaling a broader commitment to safeguarding biodiversity and promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife. Through continued innovation and strategic interventions, Tamil Nadu endeavors to create a safer environment for its cherished wildlife species.
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