Odisha harnesses AI potential for forest, wildlife conservation

ROM thwarting poachers and spotting forest fires to preventing accidental death of elephants, the use of Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised forest and wildlife protection in Odisha, showcasing how cutting-edge technology can play a pivotal role in safeguarding the ecosystem.

- SUDARSAN MAHARANA @Bhubaneswar

The state, in fact, is setting a benchmark in forest and wildlife conservation by harnessing the power of technological intervention in dealing with the critical challenges.

Capable of capturing high-resolution photos even during night, AI-integrated cameras are helping the authorities of the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), the biggest tiger habitat in the state, in ensuring every corner of the protected area is under surveillance.

Around 100 AI integrated trail guard cameras have been installed in Similipal to monitor the movement of big cats and other wild animals and check trespassing of poachers and other wildlife criminals inside the protected area.

Coupled with the foot patrolling of forest guards, these AI-enabled cameras have turned out to be a stealth weapon for the STR authorities in keeping a close watch on trespassers.

Since their trial run in March last year, the AI cameras have helped forest officials of STR track down around 20 poachers and individuals involved in different wildlife crimes and forest offences.