A solar fence monitoring system being used to detect illegal electrification of solar fences in a fringe village in Erode district.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement.
The Forest Department, in collaboration with Bannari Amman Institute of Technology (BIT), have developed a solar fence monitoring system to detect illegal electrification of solar fences in Erode and prevent wildlife deaths.Solar fences are widely used by farmers living along forest fringes to protect crops from wild animals. However, instances of people illegally connecting 220-volt AC power supply to fence lines have resulted in the deaths of elephants and other wildlife. Such violations often come to light only after animals are found dead.To address the issue, a team of researchers from the institute, led by Sanjay Deb, Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, developed a device capable of continuously monitoring fence activity and detecting unauthorised AC power connections.According to the team, the compact, waterproof and solar-powered device, equipped with a battery backup, can monitor up to four fence wires simultaneously. It uses a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)-based frequency detection algorithm to distinguish normal solar-fence pulses from illegal AC current. The system can also identify fence faults, shutdowns and power interruptions.The device records all events with date and time stamps on a microSD card, creating a verifiable record for monitoring and enforcement. It is also equipped with a tamper-alert mechanism that detects attempts to switch off the device or disconnect sensors.When illegal electrification is detected, the system activates an alarm and warning light, alerting nearby persons and acting as a deterrent. Researchers said future versions would include SMS-based alerts to enable real-time communication with Forest Department personnel.The technology is currently undergoing field trials. Officials said the initiative was expected to strengthen monitoring of solar fences, help prevent wildlife deaths and promote safer coexistence between farming communities and wildlife. Published - June 11, 2026 06:34 pm IST
