AI System Alerts Villagers to Leopard Threat in Junnar

In Junnar, located in Pune district, a significant leopard threat has prompted local authorities to seek innovative solutions. The Junnar Forest Division is collaborating with a tech firm to develop an AI system aimed at enhancing safety for villagers and farmers. This system integrates with existing CCTV cameras installed by farmers to monitor leopard activity. The AI will analyze footage to detect leopards based on their unique characteristics, such as coat color and eye movement. The project has already undergone testing in a village within Junnar, where the presence of leopards has led to increased vigilance among farmers. Many have opted to install surveillance cameras to protect their crops and livestock. The new AI system is designed to provide real-time alerts to both villagers and forest officials, thereby improving response times to potential leopard sightings. The technology relies on a high-performance microcontroller connected to a GPU-based minicomputer, which will process the data from the cameras. A deep learning model is being trained with a comprehensive database that includes various aspects of leopard behavior. This model is expected to be operational within a month, with plans for deployment in areas identified as hotspots for leopard activity. The initiative aims not only to safeguard agricultural interests but also to foster a safer living environment for residents. By leveraging advanced technology, the project represents a proactive approach to wildlife management, balancing the needs of local communities with the preservation of wildlife.