The Forest Department is set to launch a new bilingual website and a range of advanced e-governance applications designed to improve accessibility, transparency and forest management.
Forest Minister AK Sasendran will formally unveil the online initiatives at an event on Wednesday.
The newly designed website features a bilingual interface, catering to both English and Malayalam-speaking users, ensuring access to a diverse audience and promoting inclusivity. Developed by the state-run C-DIT, the website offers a user-friendly experience, making it easy for visitors to access information related to forest and wildlife conservation, public services, and departmental updates. The platform will act as a central hub for various initiatives and resources of the department.
e-governance applications
Various e-governance applications will also be launched on the occasion. TIMBER, a mobile and web-based system will facilitate the process of obtaining permission to cut timber in compliance with the Kerala Promotion of Tree Growth in Non-Forest Areas Act, 2005. The system allows landowners and farmers to apply, track, and download permits from their smartphones, ensuring transparency and compliance with legal requirements. The WILDWATCH mobile app aims to address human-wildlife conflict. It enables users to report wildlife sightings and incidents in real time. The app integrates with Forest Division Emergency Operations Centers (FDEOCs) and uses Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to analyze data, enhance decision-making and conflict management. WILDNET software supports the preparation and monitoring of management plans for protected areas. By integrating mobile app data with GIS and Remote Sensing (RS) technology, WILDNET ensures accurate field data collection and efficient conservation planning. FIREWATCH is a web portal for reporting and management of forest fire incidents. It enables rapid response to fire hazards and supports the preparation of fire management plans using real-time data. The NATURESTAY and ECOFRAME portals simplify the process of obtaining permits for paid nature camps and film shoots in forest areas, making the application process more efficient and accessible and promoting environmental awareness. The REACH portal is designed for students and researchers and streamlines the process of obtaining research permits in forest areas, encouraging further scientific exploration and conservation efforts. GREEN CONNECT is a media-sharing platform that transfers media files from field offices to the Forest Information Bureau, boosting the department’s social media presence and outreach efforts.
published – December 17, 2024 at 07:02 PM IST