Kerala Pans AI-Powered Shield Against Floods

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
Kerala is set to adopt a scientific, technology-driven approach to tackling floods and climate-related disasters, with the state government proposing a comprehensive ‘Kerala Flood Resilience Initiative’ that will use artificial intelligence, satellite technology and advanced rainfall forecasting to predict disasters before they strike.

A team of experts from IIT Roorkee, IIT Palakkad and IIIT Kottayam has submitted a preliminary framework for the initiative, which was presented before the Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Friday at a high-level meeting held here.

The project envisages creating an advanced flood-resilience system that could eventually serve as a model for other states.

The proposed system will bring together Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, remote sensing, hydrodynamic modelling and high-precision rainfall forecasting to identify areas vulnerable to flooding and provide more accurate early warnings.

The initiative is designed to address Kerala’s increasingly complex disaster profile, including extreme rainfall, urban flooding, riverine floods, landslides and mudslides.

Rather than responding only after disasters occur, the proposed system seeks to strengthen prediction, preparedness and preventive action.

One of the key recommendations concerns the removal of accumulated silt and sediment from rivers, lakes and backwaters.

The IIT experts have cautioned that such interventions should not be undertaken mechanically.

Their impact on the natural flow of water and the wider environment should first be scientifically assessed before any desilting work is carried out.

Satheesan has directed the Water Resources and Disaster Management departments to jointly examine the proposal, particularly its technical feasibility, financial requirements and implementation mechanism.

The two departments have been given one month to submit a detailed report, following which the state government will decide on the next steps for implementing the initiative.

The move comes against the backdrop of Kerala’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather events, with intense rainfall frequently resulting in urban waterlogging, river flooding and landslides.

The state government hopes that the proposed system will move Kerala from a largely response-based disaster management model to one centred on prediction, prevention and preparedness.