AI for Resilient Cities: bringing together technology and community outreach for heat-health interventions in India
This case study presents an AI for Resilient Cities model for providing early warning of heatwaves, and developing and disseminating early warnings to vulnerable populations. The model leverages weather datasets (e.g., temperature patterns, built-up roof type classification, vegetation cover, water bodies) and high resolution satellite imagery to identify areas at high risk of heatwaves. SEEDS uses the AI generated maps to find high risk homes, prioritize outreach for early warning and preparation, and demonstrate the significance of heat risks to locals (since many residents underestimate the danger that they face).
Once the AI tool has identified the households at risk, SEEDS begins outreach to prepare for the upcoming heatwave and implement solutions. Approximately 2,500 volunteers from the local community have been engaged by SEEDS thus far. The outreach program has included the following activities:
- Mobilizing some 40 women as community leaders to lead door to door awareness campaigns.
- Training frontline workers, including 13 traffic police officers, 247 civil defense officers, 154 Anganwadi workers, and 32 ASHA workers.
- Training of some 60 community volunteers in communication skills to effectively educate and engage the community.
- Educating over 6,100 students about climate change and heatwaves.
- Creating posters for the beat the heat campaign to ensure widespread awareness of heatwave risks and precautions.
Besides the community, SEEDS partnerships also extend to government organizations and agencies who focus on climate resilience, heat and health.