Tirumala, August 20, 2026: To strengthen real-time monitoring of wildlife movements and enhance the safety of devotees in the forest areas surrounding Tirumala, TTD is evaluating the use of advanced robotic technology.
On Thursday, TTD Additional EO Sri Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary, along with officials, reviewed the performance of a quadruped robot (Robotic Dog) at Sri Padmavathi Guest House in Tirumala.
Robotic Dog Tested for Difficult Terrain
The delegation examined the robot’s suitability for surveillance in difficult and hazardous terrain where human access is limited.
The robotic dog is equipped with optical and thermal imaging cameras, 360-degree LiDAR, multiple sensors and artificial intelligence, enabling it to detect and track wildlife even under low-visibility conditions such as darkness and fog.
AI Technology Can Identify Wildlife and Humans
The AI-powered system can classify large animals, humans, vehicles and domestic animals.
When wildlife movement is detected, the system can generate geo-tagged alerts and transmit live video and thermal feeds to the control room and patrolling personnel, enabling a rapid response.
Focus on Alipiri–Tirumala Footpath
One of the priority areas identified is the forest stretch adjoining the Alipiri–Tirumala footpath.
Early detection of leopards and other wildlife in these areas could help authorities alert devotees and quickly deploy forest, vigilance and security teams when required.
Exploring Non-Physical Animal Deterrence
Officials also examined the feasibility of using the robot’s sound and light systems to deter animals without physical intervention.
Such technology could potentially help move wildlife away from pilgrim areas while reducing the possibility of direct human-wildlife confrontation.
Robot to Complement Existing Surveillance
Officials noted that the robotic dog would complement, rather than replace, existing camera traps, foot patrols and forest surveillance systems.
The robot could function as a mobile monitoring asset, allowing it to be rapidly deployed to locations experiencing increased wildlife activity.
AI Data to Improve Wildlife Surveillance
Video, thermal imagery and movement data collected by the robot could help authorities better understand wildlife movement patterns.
The analysis is expected to support improved patrol scheduling and surveillance deployment in critical forest zones around Tirumala, further strengthening devotee safety.
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