INDIA’S TAMIL NADU USES AI TO PROTECT ELEPHANTS FROM TRAIN COLLISIONS

Sun 07 July 2024:

In Tamil Nadu, India, a groundbreaking AI monitoring system has significantly reduced the number of elephant deaths caused by train collisions. Over the past decade, more than 200 elephants were killed on railway tracks, prompting a concerted effort to find a solution.

In 2021, the tragic death of three female elephants near the Madukkarai forest range galvanized authorities and conservationists to act. Three years later, an AI-enabled camera system has been installed across 12 towers near railway tracks in the Coimbatore forest division, on the border with Kerala. This technology has already averted over 1,100 potential rail mishaps, saving the lives of hundreds of elephants.

Authorities in India’s Tamil Nadu state use AI-enabled cameras to keep migrating elephants and trains safe from collisions. AFP

The AI cameras are capable of detecting elephants within 150 meters of the tracks and sending alerts to forest and railway officials. These alerts enable officials to slow down trains and guide elephants away from danger. The initiative covers the most vulnerable 9 km of the railway line, which sees close to 300 trains pass daily.

India, home to the largest population of Asian elephants, has nearly 30,000 wild elephants, with about 3,000 residing in Tamil Nadu’s dense jungles. Despite efforts like constructing underpasses and manual patrolling, accidents continued to occur, highlighting the need for a more advanced solution.

The Tamil Nadu government invested 72 million rupees (approximately $860,000) in the AI project, which launched in February this year. The system includes 360º AI cameras with thermal night vision and daylight capabilities, ensuring round-the-clock monitoring. This AI-driven approach not only prevents accidents but also gathers valuable data on elephant behavior, aiding future conservation efforts.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

______________________________________________________________

FOLLOW INDEPENDENT PRESS:

WhatsApp CHANNEL
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAtNxX8fewmiFmN7N22