Divisional Railway Manager of Palakkad Division Arun Kumar Chaturvedi inspecting the work on the Elephant Intrusion Detection System on Thursday.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Divisional Railway Manager of Palakkad Division Arun Kumar Chaturvedi inspected the ongoing work on the Elephant Intrusion Detection System (EIDS) along the Kottekkad-Madukkarai section on Thursday.
The section, which spans across Kerala and Tamil Nadu, has been identified as a zone for wild elephant movements onto railway tracks. The DRM reviewed the progress of the project, which is a pioneering initiative by the Palakkad Division of the Southern Railway to prevent elephant intrusions and ensure the safety of both wildlife and passengers.
As of now, 100% of optical fibre cable laying work along B-line and 82% on A-line has been completed, and efforts are being accelerated to meet the project timeline. The project is planned to be completed by February.
The EIDS employs advanced technology, integrating an optical fibre network with artificial intelligence (AI)-based detection systems. This state-of-the-art solution is designed to detect elephant movements near railway tracks and promptly alert station masters and train drivers, enabling swift action to avert mishaps.
The system will comprehensively cover all identified elephant corridors along both A and B lines in the Kottekkad-Madukkarai section. Sensors installed on either side of the railway tracks will detect elephant footprints and transmit the data to the Distributed Acoustic Control (DAC) unit located at Walayar and Palakkad.
This advanced technology, leveraging artificial intelligence and database analysis, will accurately pinpoint the presence of elephants to the precise rail kilometre. Alerts will be promptly communicated to the station master at Walayar, the control office of the Palakkad Division, and loco pilots via dedicated display units. This proactive measure is aimed at preventing mishaps involving elephants during train operations.
With an estimated cost of ₹15.42 crore, fully funded by the Railways, this project underscores Southern Railway’s commitment to addressing ecological challenges while maintaining operational efficiency. The DRM expressed satisfaction with the quality of the work completed, so far, and appreciated the concerted efforts of the engineering and project teams.
He reiterated the division’s commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development and wildlife conservation.
Palakkad Division has already implemented a series of measures, such as reducing train speeds during night time, installing AI-based camera surveillance, erecting solar fences, widening cuttings and embankments, and enhancing lighting along vulnerable sections.
The Elephant Intrusion Detection System is envisioned as a long-term, comprehensive solution to address the persistent issue of elephant intrusions.
Published – January 17, 2025 06:52 pm IST
