Forest department to launch bilingual website, e-governance tools to enhance accessibility

New website will offer a user-friendly experience, making it easier for visitors to access information related to forest and wildlife conservation, public services, and departmental updates

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 A.K. Saseendran will officially unveil the online initiatives at a function on Wednesday.

The newly designed website features a bilingual interface, catering to both English and Malayalam-speaking users, ensuring accessibility to a diverse audience and fostering inclusivity. Developed by the State-run C-DIT, the website offers a user-friendly experience, making it easier for visitors to access information related to forest and wildlife conservation, public services, and departmental updates. The platform will serve as a central hub for the department’s various initiatives and resources.

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 timber cutting permits in compliance with the Kerala Promotion of Tree Growth in Non-Forest Areas Act, 2005. The system allows landowners and farmers to apply for, track, and download permits from their smartphones, ensuring transparency and compliance with legal requirements. WILDWATCH mobile app is aimed at addressing human-wildlife conflict. It enables users to report wildlife sightings and incidents in real time. The app integrates with Forest Division Emergency Operation Centres (FDEOCs) and uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to analyse data, enhancing decision-making and conflict management. WILDNET software supports the preparation and monitoring of management plans for Protected Areas. By integrating the 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 managing forest fire incidents. It enables quick response to fire threats and supports the preparation of fire management plans using real-time data. NATURESTAY and ECOFRAME portals simplify the process of obtaining permissions for paid nature camps and film shoots in forest areas, making the application process more efficient and accessible while promoting environmental awareness. REACH portal is designed for students and researchers and streamlines the process of obtaining research permissions in forest areas, encouraging more scientific exploration and conservation efforts. GREEN CONNECT is a media-sharing platform that facilitates the transfer of media files from field offices to the Forestry Information Bureau, enhancing the department’s social media presence and outreach efforts.

Published - December 17, 2024 07:02 pm IST