Raipur: In a proactive move to mitigate human-elephant conflicts, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department has adopted advanced technology for monitoring elephant movements. Leveraging an AI-based system, the department has developed the “Chhattisgarh Elephant Tracking and Alert” app, which offers real-time information about elephant presence to villagers via wireless communication, mobile alerts, and microphone speakers. This innovative initiative is aimed at safeguarding both communities and wildlife.
Forest minister Mohammad Akbar emphasized the importance of cohabiting with elephants and respecting their habitats. The department, under his guidance, not only offers compensation to affected families but also extends self-employment opportunities through various schemes. This holistic approach focuses on sustainable solutions to address the challenges posed by human-elephant interactions.
Chhattisgarh has witnessed a growing elephant population due to favorable environmental conditions, leading to increased human-elephant conflicts. To tackle this issue, the Forest Department has established the “Hathi Mitra Dal” (Friends of Elephants) in affected villages and launched public awareness campaigns. Moreover, in anticipation of World Elephant Day on August 12, the state is organizing a series of awareness events to promote harmony between humans and elephants.
The innovative “Chhattisgarh Elephant Tracking and Alert App” has been operational at the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve for three months. Using artificial intelligence, the app sends real-time movement alerts to registered mobile numbers within a 10-kilometer radius of elephant activity. When elephant trackers input movement data, villagers receive notifications via calls, SMS, and WhatsApp messages.
Developed collaboratively by the Wildlife Wing and Forest Management Information System (FMIS), this app contributes to conflict avoidance by providing timely information to residents in elephant-affected regions. By utilizing technology and promoting awareness, Chhattisgarh is taking significant strides to ensure the peaceful coexistence of humans and elephants in its diverse landscapes.
