Odisha Deploys AI, Drones to Combat Forest Fires; 334 Special Teams Formed

• Odisha Forest Department will use AI-enabled cameras and drones for early detection of forest fires.
• Principal Chief Conservator of Forests K Murugesan highlighted technological interventions to combat the challenge.
• 334 special protection teams with over 5,000 leaf blowers and fire-fighting equipment have been deployed.
• Over 631 training programs are underway, and 200 NDRF personnel received special forest fire prevention training.
• 29,709 forest fire sites were identified last year, with 99.7% controlled due to prompt action and satellite warnings.