Pune: Two leopard attacks within eight days in the Khadakwadi, Walunj Nagar, and Ranmala areas of eastern Ambegaon Taluka have created a sense of fear among residents. In response, the Forest Department has introduced an AI and Edge Computing-based surveillance system to monitor and prevent further leopard encounters.

The first-of-its-kind AI surveillance system has been installed in Khadakwadi, an identified high-risk zone, as part of the Forest Department’s ongoing efforts to mitigate leopard-related issues.

The new system, which can detect movement from over 35 meters away, has been designed to operate without the need for an internet connection. Once a leopard enters the camera’s field of vision, the AI system scans and verifies the animal’s identity. If confirmed as a leopard, the system triggers a siren within three seconds and immediately sends an alert to residents via mobile notifications, ensuring rapid response and enhanced safety.

According to Vikas Bhosale, Range Forest Officer, Manchar Division, this AI-based system is expected to play a crucial role in early detection and prevention of leopard encounters. The system’s data will be stored on cloud computing servers, allowing continuous monitoring and record-keeping for further analysis.

"This is the first time such an advanced system has been deployed in Ambegaon Taluka. Our goal is to reduce leopard-related incidents and provide real-time alerts to the local community," said Forest Guard Sonal Bhalerao.

Residents have welcomed the initiative, hoping that such technological interventions will help ensure their safety and minimize human-wildlife conflicts in the region.