AI Cams, Fences Foil Elephant Raids

Wild elephant invasions into ranches near the Western Ghats, particularly during December and January, are being addressed by the Tenkasi Forest Division using a blend of traditional and scientific strategies. AI-enabled elephant monitoring cameras have been installed at vulnerable points to provide real-time alerts, enabling swift action by forest personnel to guide elephants back into the forest and mitigate crop damage and human-animal conflict.

Traditional methods like solar-powered electric fences and trenches are being reinforced at entry points. The forest department is also actively working to retain elephants within their natural habitat by removing invasive species and planting native grasses, indigenous trees, wild bananas, and fruit-bearing species to enhance food availability. Water sources like check-dams and ponds are being restored to ensure ample water supply during dry periods.

Furthermore, a 24x7 integrated wildlife monitoring control room is planned to centralize data from AI cameras for continuous intervention. Community participation is being encouraged through initiatives like 'Friends of Elephants,' sensitizing villagers to report any unusual animal movements or stranger activity, thereby bolstering wildlife conservation efforts.