NEWS – Pench Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra launches an advanced AI system for early detection of forest fires.

The system integrates a high-resolution PTZ camera with a 15 km visual range, covering over 350 sq km of the reserve.

Installed on a tower near Kirringisarra village, the system operates from a control room in the West Pench range office, Kolitmara.

HIGHLIGHTS

Technological Features:

• AI Platform – Pantera:
  • Differentiates between smoke and clouds, minimizing false alarms.
  • Infrared capabilities for 24×7 operation, enabling night-time detection.
  • Integrates data from 15 commercial satellites for comprehensive fire monitoring.

Functionality and Benefits:

• Provides real-time alerts within 3 minutes of fire detection.
• Integrates weather data (temperature, precipitation, wind) and historical fire incidence for proactive fire management.
• Enables real-time tracking of resources like water tanks and forest vehicles via integrated GPS.

Collaboration and Funding:

• Implemented through collaboration between Pench Tiger Reserve, Satpuda Foundation, Umgrameio (Brazil), and Forest Fire Tech (Scaale Inc, USA).
• Partial funding from Solar Industries India Ltd, Nagpur, and Maharashtra government.