T’puram: After the success of the AI-based three-tier ele smart fence made of 30 tonne tensile fibre at Wayanad, the forest department has asked for more such technology-oriented measures such as thermal and night vision binoculars, smart sticks, smart camera traps and wire net fences to minimise human-wildlife conflicts.The 1km ele smart fence has been successful with no breaches because it is made of fibre used in ships to move containers and has a tensile strength of 30 tonnes.It also gives out sound and light warnings when wild animals are nearby. However, it costs Rs 1 crore/km. But the department has found it to be effective.Encouraged by this technological advantage, the department has suggested that govt should allot funds to procure materials such as night vision cameras, net guns, raptor pistols, thermal binoculars, smart sticks, personal protection equipment for rapid response teams, long range drones, all-terrain vehicles, smart real-time monitoring camera traps, innovative fencing like smart barrier fences in high-conflict areas, farm guards, infrasound triangulation that can detect low-frequency sounds and a smart early warning system.In addition to this, the department has also proposed AI-based triple-layer electric fences, smart barrier breach systems using sound and visuals, perimeter intrusion systems and AI-enabled thermal surveillance systems, said chief wildlife warden P Pugazhendi, who had sought over Rs 700 crore to manage human-wildlife conflicts for the next few years. This is crucial because the department has identified eight local bodies as very high human-wildlife conflict prone areas, 14 local bodies as high conflict prone areas and 51 local bodies as medium conflict prone areas.The department is embracing technology after eight people were killed and 63 others were injured over the last three months. Also, 191 cases of property loss have been reported since June. The department is looking to augment animal hospices, rescue and transport ambulances, vet facilities, watch towers and other facilities.
