Command and control centre inaugurated in the Nilgiris to mitigate human-elephant conflict

A dedicated command and control centre, which will be used to mitigate negative human-elephant interactions, was inaugurated at Nadugani Range in Genepool in the Gudalur Forest Division.

The centre was constructed at a cost of ₹6 crore under the Modernisation of Tamil Nadu Forest Force Scheme. “As part of this initiative, 46 HWCs (human-wildlife conflict) zones have been identified with 34 zones being equipped with AI-enabled surveillance cameras, while 12 locations have highly advanced AI-based monitoring systems,” a press release by the Forest Department stated.

The Forest Department said wildlife movement will be monitored round-the-clock in these areas at critical points, enabling the AI-based monitoring systems to generate real-time alerts on animal presence and potential conflict situations. The alerts are transmitted instantly to field staff through the command and control centre through 24 speaker systems positioned near human settlements as well as through SMS notifications.

“The integrated technology platform is expected to significantly reduce response time and enhance the safety of both communities and wildlife,” the press release added.

The public, too, can report wildlife-related incidents to the Department and seek assistance through a toll-free helpline number (1800-425-4353). The wireless communication network in the division has also been fully upgraded to ensure connectivity in remote areas, it was stated.

The division has also been provided with two advanced drones with thermal imaging capabilities for monitoring elephant movement and to support field-staff during elephant-driving operations. In addition, three radio-collars have also been provided to the division to fit elephants for tracking elephants and long-term management strategies.

“To strengthen field-level vigilance...120 temporary watchers have been deployed alongside frontline staff. During the peak elephant migration season (June to September), an additional 40 temporary watchers will be engaged to further reinforce conflict mitigation operations,” a press release from the Forest Department said.

The Nilgiris MP, A. Raja, district collector, Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru, Additional Chief Secretary (Environment, Climate Change and Forests), Supriya Sahu, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Srinivas Reddy, Chief Wildlife Warden, Rakesh Kumar Dogra, and Divisional Forest Officer, Vengatesh Prabhu, were also present at the inauguration.