AI-enabled TrailGuard cameras have been successfully installed at Odisha's similipal tiger reserve

What is TrailGuard AI?

It uses artificial intelligence and real-time image transmission to detect human and animal movement in protected forest areas and take swift action against poachers and illegal activities.

TrailGuard AI consists of two compact components

• Camera Unit – Pen sized unit hidden in vegetation.
• Battery/communication unit – a notepad sized unit connected to the camera by a two meter cable.

How Does It Operate?

• Movement Detection: AI-powered cameras automatically turn on from low-power mode when they detect movement.
• Object Categorization: Based on the image analysis, the in-built AI chip determines whether it is a "vehicle, " "human" or "animal. "
• Instant alert: the camera transmits an image to a control room in 40 seconds after detecting an alarm.
• Rapid response: Officials share information via very high frequency (VHF) radio and WhatsApp to quickly mobilize forest rangers.

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Key attributes and capabilities

• Easy to Hide: The pen-size camera unit and notepad-size battery unit are linked by a 2-meter cable, so they're easy to conceal.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 6 months to 1 year without frequent maintenance
• Using a mobile network, the images are quickly transmitted to the authorities – in 30-40 seconds.
• Cost-effective: At 50, 000 to 53, 000 each, it is inexpensive enough for widespread use.
• Wide adoption: currently in use at 14 sites in 5 states including Dudhwa National Park in Uttar Pradesh and Kanha Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.