Context:
Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha has reported a significant decline in poaching activities following the installation of TrailGuard AI, an artificial intelligence based early alert camera system. Due to the proactive technology that enhances enforcement capabilities, the team was able to conduct 96 arrests and confiscate 86 guns within just 10 months.
How TrailGuard AI Works
AI Camera Surveillance
- 100-150 AI cameras installed in strategic locations throughout the reserve, concealed behind dense foliage.
- Cameras operating on low energy sources until they pick up movement, when images are taken and processed.
- The AI identifies the image into groups of objects, e.g., ‘humans,’ ‘animals,’ or ‘vehicles’ and transmits additional relevant data within 30 40 seconds.
- Warning issued on control rooms, WhatsApp groups, and VHF radio networks necessitates immediate action.
Tracking and Arresting Poachers
- On ground intelligence units (undercover agents) ensure sure identification of poaching suspects.
- Numerous house raids have been carried out on the basis of photo evidence resulting in multiple arrests.
- In December 2023 alone, over 40 poachers were apprehended.
- Convictions will be quick tracked, one within six months after some arrests.
Reliability and Economy
- Hailed from Nightjar Technologies, the TrailGuard AI system entails:
- A portable camera unit (pen sized).
- A battery/communications unit (notepad sized).
- A two meter cable between the units, making it less bulky and more easy to hide.
- Battery life 6-12 months, swapping reset cycles for maintenance in extremely hard terrains.
- The price of the unit to make it a surveillance solution of high affordability is ₹50-53K per unit.
Challenges and Considerations
Impact on Tribal Communities
- Indigenous hunting practices are followed by local tribal populations.
- Greater surveillance in the forests has created fear of unjustified arrests, deterring legal entry for firewood and other purposes.
- Forest authorities are attempting to make safer entry available for villagers while sustaining anti poaching operations.
Requirement for Supporting Ground Enforcement
- Technology is not a substitute, firm law enforcement and intelligence gathering continue to be important.
- Rapid response teams are essential to act on AI alerts and prevent poaching before it happens.
Future Potential and Wider Adoption
- Patrolling and monitoring protected areas.
- Mitigating human wildlife conflict.
- Tracking wildlife movements for conservation efforts.
This TrailGuard AI has changed poaching prevention operations to fewer gunned confrontations with poachers in Similipal Tiger Reserve since law enforcement officers do make successful arrests.
