Bhubaneswar: Images captured by AI-based cameras have helped Similipal Tiger Reserve authorities nab 80% of poachers months after their trespassing in the last two years, while only around 20% are caught or intercepted red-handed, officials said.Similipal authorities said close to 51 poachers were arrested between April and July this year due to the AI-enabled surveillance. A total of 140 such cameras have been installed across the 2,750 sq km reserve, including the core area.“Poachers’ images captured by the cameras are analysed, and they are traced with the help of intelligence inputs and days of surveillance. It’s not that they are caught during the act of trespassing or poaching — many flee and are tracked down days or even months later. In some cases, older camera footage is collated and analysed,” said Similipal field director Prakash Gogineni. He added, “In a recent case where seven persons were arrested for possessing two leopard hides in the Baripada division, the actual hunting had taken place years ago, but a camera image eventually led to their identification and arrest.”On Monday, an AI trail-guard camera helped nab two poachers under Thakundmunda police station limits in Similipal’s north division. Wildlife personnel seized a bow, arrow, wild boar trap, sambar meat, and a bamboo platform. The poachers were identified as Fakira Chakira (44) and Kamala Dangil (21).Officials explained that the AI trail-guard is a camera-based surveillance system designed to strengthen wildlife conservation and mitigate human-wildlife conflict. “It uses artificial intelligence to detect and identify threats such as poachers, illegal loggers, or even animals entering populated areas,” said a senior wildlife officer.Similipal authorities also noted that since the special anti-poaching drive began two years ago, there have been no reports of repeat offenders. The reserve is the only one in India that provides year-round rations to its 800-member protection force. Started last year, the initiative costs the forest department Rs 1.8 crore annually.Wildlife officials further said there is no longer any patch in the 2,750 sq km reserve that remains inaccessible. During the monsoon, the wildlife wing previously used special foot patrol strategies due to the impassability of forest routes. Now, the personnel continue patrolling deep forest trails — often used by poachers — on foot, aided by specialised all terrain vehicles provided to each team.
