AI-Based Early Warning System Saves Elephants on Railway Tracks in Tamil Nadu
An AI-based early warning system installed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has proven to be a lifesaver for elephants on railway tracks near Madukkarai in Coimbatore district. During its trial run, the system has successfully generated alerts, allowing field staff to take prompt action to prevent elephant deaths.
The system relies on machine learning algorithms and is equipped with cameras mounted on 12 e-surveillance towers along the tracks. These towers are strategically placed between Ettimadai and Walayar stations, which pass through reserve forests. Thanks to the alerts generated by the system, forest officials have been able to intervene before elephants approach or cross the tracks in the path of oncoming trains.
At present, only the Forest Department receives the alerts, but once the machine learning process of the cameras reaches the desired level, the system will also provide alerts to railway authorities, including train drivers. This will enable them to take necessary precautions and avoid collisions with elephants.
The project, the first of its kind in Tamil Nadu, has installed five e-surveillance towers on the ‘A’ line and seven on the ‘B’ line, which both traverse the Solakkarai reserve forest of the Madukkarai forest range. The early warning system, complemented by an advanced control room, covers a highly vulnerable area of 7.05 km on the Ettimadai-Walayar section.
Officials have reported that the AI-based system has been particularly effective in capturing the activity of elephants near the tracks. It has proven beneficial in monitoring a group of elephants that have recently been camping in the sandwich forest area between the ‘A’ and ‘B’ lines.
The successful implementation of this AI-based early warning system marks a significant step forward in wildlife conservation efforts. By leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, the Forest Department can now better protect elephants from the dangers of train accidents. As the project progresses and the system becomes fully functional, it is expected to have a larger impact by providing alerts to railway authorities as well.
The use of technology in wildlife conservation is an essential tool for safeguarding vulnerable species. This AI-based system not only helps save the lives of elephants but also showcases the potential of such innovations in addressing human-wildlife conflicts. With continued advancements in AI technology, we can hope to see more initiatives like this that foster harmony between humans and wildlife.
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