In Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, officials have confirmed the theft of two elephant tusks, with an estimated value of approximately Rs 2 crore, from the Pangode Army Camp. The tusks were reportedly taken from the Officers’ Mess situated within the camp’s boundaries. A complaint regarding the incident was lodged by Subaidar Vinod GS, leading the Poojappura Police to register a case and initiate an investigation into the matter.

Investigation Details

The inquiry is being conducted under Sections BNS 331(4) and 305(e) of relevant legal statutes. Preliminary investigations suggest that the theft occurred following a DJ party held at the camp the day prior to the discovery of the missing tusks. Police are actively working to identify the individuals responsible for the theft and to recover the valuable items.

Historical Context of the Tusks

According to official records, these elephant tusks were entrusted to the Army by the government in the year 1929. The theft raises significant concerns regarding security measures in place at military facilities, particularly concerning items of historical and cultural importance.

Related Efforts in Wildlife Protection

In a separate initiative aimed at wildlife protection, the Ministry of Railways, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, has introduced an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled Intrusion Detection System (IDS). This system is designed to reduce the risk of elephants being struck by trains. Utilizing Distributed Acoustic Sensors (DAS), the IDS detects elephant presence on railway tracks and issues real-time alerts to loco pilots and station masters.

System Deployment and Functionality

This advanced system encompasses Optical Fibre technologies, hardware, and pre-installed motion signatures specific to elephants. Currently, the IDS operates over 141 route kilometers in critical and vulnerable railway locations as identified by the forest department in the Northeast Frontier Railway zone. Plans have been announced for additional implementation of the IDS across various segments of Indian Railways, covering a total of 1,100 kilometers across multiple zones.

Protocol in Case of Incidents

In situations where elephants collide with trains, Zonal Railways conduct thorough investigations alongside the Forest department, taking immediate corrective measures. These actions may include enforcing speed restrictions at particular locations and issuing alerts to train crews and station management. Regular meetings with forest officials are organized to ensure ongoing education and awareness for train personnel regarding wildlife encounters.

Recent Statistics on Wildlife Incidents

Data indicates that over the past five years, an average of sixteen incidents involving elephants and trains have been reported annually. This highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in addressing wildlife safety in relation to railway operations.

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