Robotic Dog Deployed for Wildlife Monitoring in Tirumala
By Technology Desk
TTD deploys an AI-powered robotic dog with thermal cameras for real-time wildlife monitoring along Tirumala’s Alipiri-Tirumala footpath, enhancing devotee safety.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is deploying an advanced robotic dog to enhance real-time wildlife monitoring in the forest areas around Tirumala. This initiative aims to significantly improve devotee safety, particularly along the Alipiri-Tirumala footpath.
TTD additional executive officer Ch Venkaiah Chowdary, alongside other temple officials, recently reviewed the quadruped robot’s performance. The device is equipped with advanced features for comprehensive detection and tracking.
Advanced Surveillance Capabilities
- Optical and thermal imaging cameras
- A 360-degree LiDAR system
- Multiple sensors
- Artificial intelligence for entity classification
The robot’s AI system can categorize entities such as large animals, humans, vehicles, and domestic animals. It functions effectively even in challenging low-visibility conditions like darkness or fog, ensuring continuous monitoring.
Upon detecting wildlife movement, the robotic dog transmits geo-tagged alerts directly to the control room and patrolling staff. Live video and thermal feeds are also streamed to facilitate an immediate response.
Strategic Deployment & Deterrence
Priority deployment zones include forest stretches adjacent to the Alipiri-Tirumala footpath, where early detection of animals like leopards is critical. The system is designed to warn devotees and enable rapid deployment of forest, vigilance, and security teams.
Officials also explored using the robot’s sound and light units to non-physically deter animals, aiming to prevent direct human-wildlife confrontations. This approach seeks to move wildlife away from pilgrim areas without direct interaction.
The temple body considers this robotic technology a complement to existing surveillance methods, including camera traps, foot patrols, and forest surveillance. It acts as a mobile monitoring asset for quick deployment to high wildlife activity locations.
Analysis of the video, thermal imagery, and movement data collected by the robot will inform improved patrol scheduling and surveillance. This data-driven approach aims to better understand wildlife patterns in critical zones, addressing previous incidents of leopards attacking devotees.