Gaj Rakshak App Enhances Elephant Monitoring In Bandhavgarh

The Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh has recently adopted advanced technology to monitor its growing elephant population. The newly launched ‘Gaj Rakshak’ mobile application offers real-time tracking and timely alerts to prevent human-elephant conflicts. This initiative reflects the increasing efforts to protect wildlife and local communities in the region.

Background and Elephant Population Growth

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve has witnessed a steady rise in its elephant population. Since 2018, when a herd of 40 elephants settled permanently, their numbers have grown to around 65. The area provides ample water, food, and safe habitat, encouraging elephants to make it their home. The adjoining districts of Shahdol, Anuppur, and Umaria, rich in forest cover and natural resources, also record frequent elephant movement.

Introduction of the Gaj Rakshak App

The ‘Gaj Rakshak’ app was launched on World Tiger Day by the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Developed jointly by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department, Wildlife Conservation Trust, and Kalpvag company, the app is designed for real-time elephant monitoring. Officials received training from late September to use the app effectively across multiple forest divisions.

Features and Functionality of the App

The app provides real-time location data, movement patterns, and behaviour of elephants. It issues alerts when elephants approach villages, helping to reduce conflict. The app supports SMS alerts, voice calls, push notifications, sirens, and works offline. Users within a 10 km radius receive updates on elephant locations. Elephant monitors can upload photos and indicate whether elephants are solitary or in herds.

Impact on Human-Elephant Conflict Prevention

By providing timely alerts, the app enables local communities to take precautionary measures. This reduces crop damage and risks to human life during the harvest season when elephants sometimes enter rural areas. The app also facilitates better coordination among forest officials across several districts, enhancing conservation efforts.

Regional Elephant Movement and Habitat

Elephants frequently move through Shahdol Division, which includes Shahdol, Anuppur, and Umaria districts. The region’s dense forests, water bodies like Bansagar backwaters, and bamboo-rich hilly terrain offer ideal living conditions. Proximity to Chhattisgarh allows natural migration and movement of elephant herds between states.

Tourism and Wildlife Conservation

Elephants have become a major attraction for visitors to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Their presence adds to the reserve’s appeal alongside tigers. Wildlife photography and eco-tourism benefit from the growing elephant population, promoting awareness and support for conservation.