Wildwatch app to tackle human-wildlife conflicts

THE Wildwatch app launched by the forest department under the Forest-PLUS 3.0 programme is expected to go a long way in addressing human-wildlife conflicts through real-time reporting and monitoring.

- VARSHA SOMARAJ @T'Puram

Developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the app uses advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) technology for enhanced data management and conflict resolution.

The app allows users to report wildlife sightings in human-inhabited areas by submitting photographs and GPS-tagged details. Reports are instantly sent to the nearest Forest Division Emergency Operations Centre (FDEOC), which verifies and processes them. Verified alerts trigger responses from Human Rapid Task Forces, ensuring action to mitigate potential threats. To avoid duplicate reports, officials cross-check submissions before updating the status of incidents.