Udhagamandalam: Forest minister R V Ranjith Kumar inspected the AI-powered Command and Control Centre in Gudalur on Saturday, and reviewed measures being taken to prevent human-elephant conflict in the Nilgiris.The centre, functioning under Gudalur forest range, has 67 AI-enabled cameras, including 12 multi-sensor tower cameras equipped with radar, thermal imaging and visible-spectrum technology. It also has 24 alert stations, a hub station and a repeater station to facilitate real-time monitoring and communication.The minister reviewed the surveillance system and directed officials to closely monitor areas witnessing frequent elephant movement. He also stressed the need for early detection of wildlife entering human habitation and swift preventive and rescue action after alerts are received.He later visited the Theppakadu Elephant Camp in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and reviewed feeding arrangements and elephant-care practices. He also fed sugarcane to elephants at the camp and interacted with officials.In Ooty, the minister met tribal community members and heard their grievances related to livelihood and basic needs. He assured them of appropriate action. Tribal residents performed traditional dances and played musical instruments, with the minister also joining them in the dance.
