NILGIRIS: To tackle human-wildlife conflicts, a new Command-and-Control Centre has opened at Genepool Garden in the Nadugani forest range. This cutting-edge facility, which cost Rs 6 crore, was launched by Nilgiris MP A. Raja, alongside key officials from the state’s forest department.
The centre features 34 AI-powered cameras and 12 advanced monitoring systems installed at 46 hotspots in the region. This modernization effort is part of Tamil Nadu’s initiative to enhance wildlife management.
These high-tech cameras monitor wildlife movements around the clock. They provide instant alerts about animal presence and potential conflicts, which are sent to field staff and the public through 24 alert poles equipped with speakers as well as SMS notifications.
A. Raja highlighted that this initiative is unique in the state, differing from a similar setup at Madukkarai, which is limited to monitoring near railway tracks. The cameras are particularly impressive, capable of detecting elephants and tigers even if only 10% of their body is visible.
Supriya Sahu, the Additional Chief Secretary of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests, assured that residents and forest officials would receive real-time updates. This ongoing communication could significantly reduce the risks of human-wildlife encounters.
With wildlife populations on the rise, such initiatives are crucial. According to a recent study by the Wildlife Institute of India, human-wildlife conflicts have increased by 30% in the past decade. This highlights the need for effective measures like the Command-and-Control Centre to ensure safety for both animals and people.
By improving monitoring systems, we can foster coexistence between humans and wildlife while protecting biodiversity. It’s a step towards a safer, more harmonious environment for everyone involved.
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