The Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) is now under AI (Artificial intelligence) supervision. As per the forest department, 5 tower-based 6 AI cameras are being used experimentally in Similipal forest to monitor forest fire, wild animal movements and to track down the activity of poachers.
For the last two days, Similipal forest has been burning. However, the authorities said that all animals are safe in the forest. A total of five AI camera towers have been urgently set up across the entire Similipal sanctuary. Additionally, it has been announced that these AI cameras will be positioned in the burning forest areas, including Satkoshiya.
The tower-based AI technology is used for getting immediate information on forest fires and to douse them quickly. Equipped with high-resolution cameras capable of moving 360 degrees, these towers detect activity up to 15 kilometres away. As a result, forest fires and illegal hunting of wild animals will become easier to detect. The cost of each AI tower installation is Rs. 2.5 crore.
This system also facilitates the provision of real-time data and transmission related to the forest fire. To address manpower needs, the Regional Chief Conservator of Forest (RCCF) has assigned 505 fire squads across different wildlife divisions within the Mayurbhanj district. Furthermore, 733 air blower machines have been employed to aid in extinguishing the fire.
