Gujarat Enhances Gir Conservation with Advanced Technology

Gandhinagar: Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his time as Chief Minister, significant steps were taken to safeguard the environment of Gujarat’s Greater Gir region. Now, according to government officials, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is continuing these transformative conservation efforts with strict laws, policies, and initiatives. These ongoing efforts have made Gujarat a safer place for wildlife over the past fifteen years, something the state takes great pride in.

The Gujarat government is committed to raising public awareness and promoting conservation, increasingly incorporating advanced technology to protect its wildlife.

Recognizing the importance of scientific data and research, a modern wildlife monitoring unit was established in Gir in 2019 to bolster conservation work.

This advanced unit is equipped to conduct radio telemetry studies on both predatory animals and birds within the Gir region. It also facilitates wireless communication, manages databases using microchips for animal identification, and oversees surveillance of vehicles used for safaris, as well as entry and exit points to the protected areas. Telemetry studies, using radio transmitters attached to animals, are crucial for tracking animal movements and behaviors, providing vital information for conservation strategies.

To reduce the danger of vehicle collisions with animals, a sophisticated speed monitoring system has been deployed on roads within the protected Gir area. This system uses sensor-based thermal cameras to detect and measure the speed of vehicles. The speed is then displayed on LED screens to warn drivers to slow down, enhancing wildlife safety.

The system is further enhanced with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology. This technology scans and identifies vehicle license plates, enabling efficient tracking of vehicles entering and moving within the area. Thermal cameras are used for their ability to detect the heat signatures of animals and objects, ensuring accurate wildlife monitoring even when visibility is poor or in harsh weather conditions.

All collected data, including vehicle movement and wildlife presence, is transmitted to a central control center and forest checkposts. This real-time data sharing allows for rapid responses and interventions to prevent accidents involving wildlife on sensitive roadways.