Tamil Nadu Government Launches AI Cameras to Track Elephant Movements in Dharmapuri Forests

Synopsis

In a landmark move to decrease human-wildlife conflicts, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has implemented 12 AI-driven solar cameras in Dharmapuri forests. This technology aids in monitoring elephant movements and significantly reduces confrontations, enhancing safety for both wildlife and local communities.

Key Takeaways

12 AI-driven solar cameras installed in Dharmapuri.
Technology minimizes human-wildlife conflicts.
Real-time alerts enhance forest personnel responses.
High elephant activity reported in specific areas.
Community safety measures planned for future implementation.

Chennai, April 6 (NationPress) In a significant initiative aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has deployed 12 AI-powered, solar-operated cameras at four strategic locations within the Dharmapuri forest range.

These advanced cameras are engineered to identify and monitor the movements of wild elephants, particularly in areas often affected by elephant intrusions.

The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Dharmapuri, is notorious for its high incidence of human-wildlife conflicts within the state.

As reported by forest department officials, each AI-driven camera carries a price tag of approximately Rs 15 lakh. Despite their expense, this technology has greatly contributed to minimizing confrontations between humans and elephants.

Officials noted that the AI cameras can detect elephant presence well ahead of time. This proactive detection allows forest teams to act swiftly, steering these animals away before they invade agricultural lands or residential zones.

The cameras are capable of zooming in on movements from up to one kilometer away and maintain a constant Internet connection. Live feeds are overseen from a centralized control room situated at the Dharmapuri Forest Office.

Significant elephant activity has been observed in regions within the elephant corridor, especially in Palacode, Pennagaram, and Hogenakkal. Crop destruction is a recurring problem in these areas.

During the fiscal year 2024–25, the Dharmapuri district documented 827 incidents of human-wildlife conflict, leading the government to allocate Rs 62.67 lakh in compensation.

The newly implemented AI surveillance system has shown remarkable efficiency in Palacode, where real-time alerts from the control room facilitate a prompt response from forest officials.

In the upcoming phase, the forest department intends to install digital bulletin boards and speakers in surrounding villages to relay real-time updates on elephant movements, thereby enhancing community safety.

Human-wildlife conflicts have been escalating throughout Tamil Nadu. The state reported 80 human fatalities due to such encounters in 2024-25, marking the highest number in five years. Additionally, the Forest Department recorded 4,235 instances of crop damage, 259 livestock deaths, 176 property damage incidents, and 138 human injuries during the same timeframe.

Although Tamil Nadu’s forest cover is below the national average, the state is rich in biodiversity. Currently, it boasts a stable wild elephant population of 3,063. The tiger population has also significantly risen, nearly quadrupling since 2005-06 to reach 306 according to the 2022-23 census.