Intensive data-driven patrolling with continuous analysis and feedback from Forest Control Centre is being implemented in Srikonda range of Nizamabad district of Telangana, for forest and wildlife conservation. The model has checked instances of forest fire besides providing multi-spectral reconnaissance and surveillance of the forest. In view of its effectiveness, this model is being rolled out in all the seven ranges of Nizamabad.
Speaking with Indian Masterminds, 2017-batch IFS officer and DFO of Nizamabad, Mr Vikas Meena said, “We are using technology for patrolling effectively and take a feedback by analyzing its data. Earlier data used to be available only after some incident. But there was no analysis of that data. So we did not have any data to prevent recurrence of such incidents. With new approach, forest offenses may be anticipated in advance.”
SRIKONDA MODEL
While patrolling, the forest guards sends their location to the control room through GPS tracking. Officials analyze it on a weekly basis map the extent of patrolling in each range. Accordingly, they plan next phase of patrolling.
Mr Meena said, “If smuggling is on the rise in the border areas and we can plan the security of the border areas according to the patrolling data available with us.”
Data available with the Forest Department for the last 10 years shows that over 80% of the fire is manmade. “Data driven patrolling has reduced fire incidents in entire Nizamabad region,” Mr. Meena added.
THE TECHNOLOGY
There is open source QGIS software. It collects data using GIS technology (geographic information system application). Operators analyze and filter this data from control centers. After that their feedback is communicated to the range officers. Apart from this, the forest department also uses Google Earth Satellite Imagery. The fire data of Forest survey of India and from NASA’s satellite are also being analysed. Implementation of the technology has reduced forest and wildlife offenses. Smuggling of sands and illegal mining activities has reduced.
FUTURE PLANNING
Some cameras have been installed for e-surveillance in Nizamabad forest region. But department is planning for more technological upgradation in coming days. Mr. Meena said, “We are going to install solar based CCTV cameras at 30 locations in the entire district. Apart from this, cameras are also going to be installed on heavy wildlife routes to stop smuggling routes and illegal poaching, so that all the evidence remains with the department. And all the data can be seen directly from the data control centre.”
