While in Spain railway debates revolve around delays or costs, in India the concern is much more critical: the death of wildlife on the tracks. In particular, Asian elephants face a growing risk.
Between 2019 and 2024, at least 81 specimens died after being hit by trains. Additionally, recent episodes highlight the magnitude of the problem, with entire herds affected in high-impact accidents.
Consequently, railway expansion and habitat fragmentation have intensified these conflicts. Thus, regions like Assam, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, or Jharkhand concentrate the greatest risks.
A system with artificial intelligence to prevent tragedies
In response to this scenario, authorities and scientists developed a strategy based on artificial intelligence. The system was implemented in Madukkarai, in the state of Tamil Nadu, as a pilot test.
The technology combines thermal cameras and motion sensors installed on towers. Thus, when an elephant approaches within 100 meters of the tracks, an automatic alert is activated.
Then, the alert reaches railway and environmental personnel in real-time. Consequently, trains can reduce their speed, allowing animals to cross safely.
Infrastructure, habitat, and critical points under surveillance
The problem is not isolated, but structural. Therefore, the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change along with scientific organizations identified critical risk areas.
In total, 110 sensitive sections for elephants and 17 for tigers were detected, covering more than 3,400 kilometers. However, 77 sectors were prioritized for urgent interventions.
Additionally, complementary solutions such as underpasses, ramps, and fences are incorporated. These measures aim to reduce habitat fragmentation and facilitate wildlife movement.
Technology applied to conservation: advantages of artificial intelligence
The use of artificial intelligence marks a paradigm shift in the protection of species. Firstly, it allows for the detection of animals in conditions where the human eye fails, such as night or sharp curves.
Likewise, it improves response capacity by generating early alerts. This transforms a late reaction into a preventive action, significantly reducing the risk of collisions.
On the other hand, these systems collect real-time data. Consequently, they facilitate continuous monitoring and decision-making based on scientific evidence.
Additionally, AI can be integrated with other technologies, such as acoustic sensors or radars. In this way, intelligent networks capable of protecting entire ecosystems are built.
An environmental challenge that requires innovation and planning
The mortality of elephants by trains has become one of the main non-natural causes of death in the species. This is especially critical in a country that hosts more than 60% of the world’s population of Asian elephants.
However, the solution does not depend solely on technology. It also requires territorial planning, habitat conservation, and sustained public policies.
In summary, the incorporation of artificial intelligence represents a key tool to mitigate human impact. Therefore, its application opens new possibilities to protect biodiversity in an increasingly intervened world.
