CHENNAI: The Forest department launched an AI-powered command centre for Rs 6 crore at Gudalur in the Nilgiris on Saturday to upgrade management strategies in human-wildlife conflict.
As per a department release, the 24/7 Centre has been strategically located within a high-conflict zone, and designed as a centralised operational hub integrating real-time monitoring, early warning systems, rapid response coordination, scientific data analysis and community engagement to enable proactive and preventive management of human–wildlife conflict.
"As part of this comprehensive project, 46 vulnerable human-wildlife conflict locations have been scientifically identified across the Gudalur Forest Division based on historical conflict data, elephant movement patterns and detailed field assessments. Of these, 34 locations have been equipped with AI-enabled surveillance cameras, while 12 locations have been provided with highly advanced AI-based monitoring systems capable of 360-degree detection," the release added.
Also, a dedicated toll-free helpline (1800–425–4353) has also been operationalised to enable the public to report human–wildlife conflict incidents and forest protection concerns, ensuring rapid response and enhanced public participation.
Further strengthening field-level technological capability, two advanced drones with thermal imaging capabilities have been procured to support aerial surveillance, particularly during night hours and in areas with limited visibility. The drones assist in tracking elephant herds, identifying conflict-prone situations and supporting elephant-guiding and rapid response operations.
The AI-powered Command and Control Centre is expected to result in a measurable reduction in fatal incidents, significantly reduced alert-to-response time, increased success of pre-emptive deterrence actions and improved community confidence in conflict mitigation mechanisms, the department said.