Neha BaruahThe Pench Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra has recently introduced a groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence (AI) system designed to detect forest fires early. This significant technological advancement was publicly unveiled on June 26, 2024.
Innovative Technology Implementation
An advanced PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera has been installed on a tower atop one of the reserve’s highest hills, standing at approximately 540 meters above sea level near Kirringisarra village. This state-of-the-art system operates by providing a wide field of view spanning 15 kilometers, effectively monitoring over 350 square kilometers of forest. Additionally, it operates from a control room located at the West Pench range office in Kolitmara, utilizing data from fifteen commercial satellite services.
AI-Powered Platform: Pantera
Named ‘Pantera,’ the AI platform utilizes high-resolution camera feeds and satellite data to deliver real-time fire alerts within three minutes of detection. This system marks a significant leap forward in forest fire monitoring, transitioning from satellite-based surveillance to a more comprehensive approach.
Advantages of the AI System
Enhanced Detection Capabilities: Pantera employs infrared technology that operates continuously, distinguishing between smoke and clouds to significantly reduce false alarms, thereby enhancing the reliability of fire alerts.
Data Integration and Predictive Analysis: By integrating weather data such as temperature, rainfall, and wind speed, Pantera can predict potential fires by comparing current conditions with historical data. This proactive approach aids in effective fire management.
Resource Management: The system enhances resource tracking by equipping forest trucks and water tanks with GPS, enabling real-time monitoring of their locations during fire response operations.
Impact and Collaborative Efforts
The implementation of this AI system represents a major stride in Pench Tiger Reserve’s fire management strategy. Anticipated benefits include quicker responses to new fires, optimized resource allocation, and enhanced protection of the forest ecosystem and wildlife. The project involved collaboration among Pench Tiger Reserve, the Satpuda Foundation, Umgrameio from Brazil, Forest Fire Tech from Scaale Inc. in the USA, with financial support from Solar Industries India Ltd. in Nagpur and the Maharashtra government.
This initiative underscores Pench Tiger Reserve’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for environmental conservation and wildfire prevention, setting a new standard for conservation efforts worldwide.
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