The Tamil Nadu government recently took a bold step to tackle human-wildlife conflicts with the launch of an AI Command and Control Centre in Gudalur. This follows the success of a similar system in Madukkarai, Coimbatore, which has remarkably led to no elephant deaths on railway tracks in the area for two years. Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary for Environment, shared this news enthusiastically, highlighting the system’s effectiveness in enabling 6,000 safe elephant crossings.
The AI system in Madukkarai, introduced in February 2024, uses 12 towers and thermal cameras to detect elephant movement near railway tracks. It not only alerts officials but also identifies other wildlife, including deer and leopards. This technology shows great promise in reducing human-wildlife conflicts significantly.
Gudalur has become a hot spot for these conflicts due to its mixed landscapes filled with plantations and settlements. Traditionally, methods like trenches and solar fencing were used but often fell short. The new centre, built at a cost of ₹6 crore, aims to be a centralized hub for monitoring, alerts, and community involvement. The system has already identified 46 vulnerable locations in the area, with real-time data analysis to ensure timely responses to elephant movements.
What’s more, the centre is enhancing its capabilities with tools like thermal imaging drones for night-time surveillance and GPS collars to track elephant movements. About 120 workers will manage the operation, with extra staff during peak migration seasons.
This innovative approach aligns with a growing trend in wildlife management, reflecting a shift towards employing technology for conservation. Nationally, incidents of conflict remain critical; for instance, just recently, a train in Assam derailed after colliding with a herd of elephants.
Experts emphasize the importance of integrating technology with local community efforts. In fact, studies have shown that communities engaged in these solutions are more effective in reducing conflicts. As Tamil Nadu aims to replicate this model in other regions, the focus remains on protecting both wildlife and agricultural communities.
For more on initiatives like these, you can explore government reports or trusted sources [here](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=Mathrubhumi English).
