Cattle-Related Challenges in Ahmedabad
Stray cattle have long been a significant concern in Ahmedabad, frequently contributing to traffic congestion and posing safety hazards. The Ahmedabad Municipal
Corporation (AMC) previously attempted to manage this issue by relying on CCTV cameras and manual processes. Teams manually photographed stray cows at various locations with the assistance of CCTV cameras. Then, these animals were identified through their microchips and RFID tags. This conventional method, however, consumed considerable time and resources. As a result, the authorities recognized the need for a more efficient and advanced strategy to address the ongoing challenges related to stray animals in the city.
AI Solution Unveiled
To address the existing challenges, an agency has been entrusted by the AI Centre of Excellence in Gandhinagar's GIFT City to develop an innovative AI model. This advanced system is designed to identify and track stray cattle using computer vision and deep-learning technology. The AI model meticulously scans the face of each cow, with a primary focus on its nose pattern. This approach is based on the principle that, much like human fingerprints, the nose patterns of cows are unique. Additionally, the AI model will also consider any distinguishing marks or stains on the eyes and face of the animal. By comparing these features with a database, the AI can rapidly identify each cow, retrieving its owner's details, thus facilitating effective management.
RFID Tagging and Database
Presently, approximately 1.1 lakh cows within Ahmedabad have been equipped with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags and microchips. The data from these tags is meticulously maintained in a comprehensive database by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). This database is a crucial component of the current management system, providing essential information for tracking and identifying cattle. Additionally, the city has strategically placed cameras at 130 junctions, allowing for constant monitoring and photography of stray animals. This infrastructure is vital for the AI model to function and efficiently identify and manage stray cattle, thereby enhancing public safety.
Benefits of AI System
The implementation of the AI-driven solution promises to bring about several key benefits, the primary one being a significant reduction in traffic issues caused by stray cattle. By quickly identifying and locating the owners of these animals, authorities can take immediate action to manage and remove them from public spaces. This proactive approach aims to significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by stray cattle, thereby enhancing public safety. Moreover, the project is designed to establish a data-driven monitoring system, allowing for continuous improvements and more efficient management of the issue in the long run. The Gujarat government hopes this will revolutionize civic management.
Government's Commitment
The Gujarat government is strongly emphasizing the application of modern technology and artificial intelligence to transform its cities into smart, efficient urban environments. Following the establishment of the AI Centre of Excellence in Gandhinagar, the government is committed to incorporating AI into various citizen services, thereby improving overall governance. This initiative marks a significant step towards this goal, with the pilot project in Ahmedabad providing a valuable framework for addressing the issue of stray animals. The government anticipates that this approach will facilitate smoother operations, enabling easier solutions to problems caused by stray animals. This project sets a precedent for how technology can be used to improve urban environments.
