In a decisive move to address the escalating human-wildlife conflict across the state, the Uttarakhand government has unveiled a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy. The plan includes establishing district-level sterilisation and rehabilitation centres, deploying AI-powered early-warning systems at conflict hotspots, and empowering frontline forest officers with greater authority.
A Tech-Enabled and Decentralised Defence Strategy
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced an immediate allocation of Rs 5 crore to the forest department for procuring essential equipment. This includes tranquilisation guns, nets, and cages to improve rapid response capabilities. A final implementation blueprint is expected within the next two weeks.
In a significant administrative shift, powers under the Wildlife Protection Act will be decentralised. Ranger-level forest officers will now be authorised to take swift, on-ground action against violent animals without waiting for higher-level approvals. "We are making the required changes to the rules to make this effective," stated CM Dhami.
Targeting Population Control and Immediate Deterrence
To manage the growing populations of problematic species like langurs, monkeys, wild boars, and bears, the government will set up sterilisation centres in every district. These will be managed directly by the forest department.
For immediate protection in vulnerable areas, the state will install solar fencing and sensor-based alert systems. "In areas where wildlife causes harm to crops, infrastructure and human life, we will install solar fencing and sensor-based alert systems as part of a structured and phased security plan," Dhami explained.
Furthermore, dedicated rescue and rehabilitation centres for conflict animals will be established. A minimum of 10 nali land in hilly areas and at least 1 acre in plains will be reserved for this purpose, with these projects receiving top priority.
AI Steps Into the Forest: Bear-Specific Alerts Deployed
A standout feature of the new plan is the introduction of artificial intelligence for pre-emptive warnings. The forest department will install at least five AI-powered early-warning devices at identified conflict hotspots, with a special focus on areas with high bear activity.
These systems will be trained on a database of animal sounds and images and linked to a mobile app. When an animal enters a radius of 200–400 metres, the device will trigger SMS alerts to residents and forest staff, emit deterrent sounds, and can even activate bear spray if the animal nears human settlements.
Forest officials noted that the unusually high bear activity this season has been a major concern, making this the first time bear-specific AI deterrents are being introduced in the state.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by grim statistics. Official data shows that as of December 14, wildlife conflicts in Uttarakhand have resulted in 64 human deaths and 467 injuries. Black bears alone are responsible for at least 8 deaths and 95 injuries. Recent incidents, including a bear with cubs spotted in a Uttarkashi residential yard and two school students encountering a bear in Pokhri, have heightened public fear.
With the festive season underway, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Ranjan Mishra has issued a 15-point advisory to all forest divisions. The advisory urges caution to ensure celebrations involving fireworks and loud music do not further agitate or disturb wildlife, potentially triggering more conflict incidents.
