Though wildfires continue to ravage the Similipal forest, reassuring news emerges that the core area and its adjoining buffer zone, crucial habitats for wildlife remain untouched by the flames.
· In a tweet, PCCF declared, “Similipal & its tigers have a safe haven to flourish…Our green soldiers & team ODRAF are working in adverse conditions to keep the forest fire at bay.
· Efforts to combat the blaze have been bolstered by a combination of factors.
· Through AI-powered early warning systems, forest authorities receive timely alerts, enabling swift intervention to extinguish flames and mitigate potential damage.
· PCCF Nanda emphasized the effectiveness of AI in forest fire management, announcing plans for its expansion beyond Similipal to other vulnerable regions of Odisha.
· As the battle against the inferno continues, the collaborative efforts of forest personnel, supported by cutting-edge technology, offer hope for the preservation of one of India’s most precious natural ecosystems.
As wildfires continue to ravage the Similipal forest, reassuring news emerges that the core area and its adjoining buffer zone, crucial habitats for wildlife including tigers, remain untouched by the flames. PCCF Sushant Nanda confirmed on Thursday that the diligent efforts of forest personnel, augmented by advanced technology, have kept the inferno at bay.
In a tweet, Nanda declared, “Similipal & its tigers have a safe haven to flourish…Our green soldiers & team ODRAF are working in adverse conditions to keep the forest fire at bay. No part of the core or its adjoining buffer area is affected.” Despite the severity of the situation, the fire has been contained primarily to fringe areas near villages.
Efforts to combat the blaze have been bolstered by a combination of factors. Increased awareness among local communities, the establishment of fire lines, and the deployment of rapid response teams such as the ODRAF have contributed to a significant reduction in the number of fire points reported this April compared to previous years.
Anticipating the onset of peak summer in May, the Forest Department remains vigilant, intensifying awareness campaigns in communities residing near forested areas. Notably, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has revolutionized the forest fire response mechanism in Similipal.
Through AI-powered early warning systems, forest authorities receive timely alerts, enabling swift intervention to extinguish flames and mitigate potential damage. Six tower-based AI systems, equipped with high-resolution cameras and capable of 360-degree surveillance, have been strategically positioned across the sanctuary. These towers detect smoke or fire from considerable distances, facilitating prompt mobilization of response teams to the precise location via GPS coordinates.
PCCF Nanda emphasized the effectiveness of AI in forest fire management, announcing plans for its expansion beyond Similipal to other vulnerable regions of Odisha, including Satkosia and South Odisha. Real-time data transmission and monitoring further enhance the efficiency of firefighting operations, addressing concerns about manpower shortages.
The implementation of AI technology underscores a proactive approach to conservation, safeguarding not only the biodiversity of Similipal but also the livelihoods of local communities dependent on its resources. As the battle against the inferno continues, the collaborative efforts of forest personnel, supported by cutting-edge technology, offer hope for the preservation of one of India’s most precious natural ecosystems.
(With inputs from agencies)
