Bhopal: An artificial intelligence-powered surveillance network deployed in the core area of Pench Tiger Reserve helped forest officials apprehend a man allegedly involved in illegal fishing inside a protected zone.
The incident took place on May 26 at Naharjhir Talab, located in Compartment No. 1421 under Beat Naharjhir of the Gumtara Range. The area falls within the reserve’s core zone, where entry is strictly prohibited without official permission.
According to forest authorities, the AI-driven Pench National Park Advance Warning System (PAWS) identified an unauthorized human presence and immediately generated a real-time alert. movement in the area.
Acting swiftly on the alert, forest staff reached the location and detained Feli Verma, son of Lakhan Vermaa and resident of Titri village in Chhindwara district, who was allegedly fishing inside the protected forest area. Another individual managed to escape, and efforts are underway to identify and locate the suspect.
Officials stated that Verma was produced before a court in Chhindwara and later sent to judicial custody.
Forest authorities described the incident as a major success for the PAWS surveillance system, highlighting its ability to significantly reduce response time compared to traditional patrolling methods. The technology enables rapid transmission of information from remote forest locations, strengthening wildlife protection efforts.
Also Read: How Technology Is Helping Protect Tigers in Pench
The reserve’s core areas remain under constant surveillance to prevent poaching and unauthorized entry. Officials warned that illegal access not only threatens wildlife but also puts individuals at risk due to the presence of tigers in the region.
Despite ongoing awareness initiatives like Bagh Chaupal and frequent announcements in surrounding villages, some residents still venture into protected forest areas illegally, officials said. They urged local communities to support conservation efforts and cautioned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found violating regulations in the reserve’s core zones.
