AI saves elephants: 6,592 safe elephant crossings on Tamil Nadu railway tracks; no fatalities in nine months
The Forest Department shared video evidence of the system's effectiveness, showing a family of elephants safely traversing the railway tracks in Madukkarai. The footage captured the elephants walking calmly across the tracks, demonstrating the successful integration of technology and wildlife protection measures.
"TN proves what's possible when technology meets commitment. In Madukkarai, the AI-powered early warning system has ensured zero elephant deaths on rail tracks since Nov 2023.
12 towers | 24 cameras | 6,592 safe crossings | 25 forest staff on watch. Every elephant matters — TN shows the world how," the Tamil Nadu Forest Department stated in their social media post.
The achievement gained additional recognition when Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Supriya Sahu shared the video on World Elephant Day, which is observed annually on August 12. The initiative represents a collaborative effort between forest rangers, track watchers, guards, loco pilots, and officers.
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The monitoring system operates around the clock using thermal cameras to ensure safe passage for the elephants.
"What better tribute to elephants on #WorldElephantDay than guaranteeing their right to a safe life," Sahu wrote in her social media post.
"Let's do more of these interventions to ensure the long-term survival of these beautiful elephant families," Sahu added in her statement.
The successful track record of 6,592 safe crossings since the system's implementation in November 2023 provides concrete evidence of its effectiveness in preventing elephant casualties on railway tracks.
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