The Interview World

Founded in 2019, AccionLAND Pvt. Ltd. is a dynamic technology powerhouse, adept at blending diverse knowledge domains with dexterity. The organization executes sophisticated tasks by harnessing data and cutting-edge technologies. With a specialization in spatial data management, infrastructure planning, and advisory services across multiple sectors, AccionLAND thrives on delivering rapid, results-driven solutions. Spearheaded by a team of technocrats, AccionLAND serves as a living innovation lab. It drives disruption in the consulting industry for a more sustainable future.

In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World, Diana Yohannan, Director of Spatial Lab at AccionLAND Pvt. Ltd., illuminates how her company is setting new benchmarks in early-warning systems by leveraging emerging technologies. She offers compelling insights into the technological framework that underpins their data processing capabilities. Furthermore, she articulates the on-the-ground responses they are receiving and delves into the robust ecosystem from which these technologies derive data. Finally, Diana underscores the critical demand for early-warning systems, particularly in climate-sensitive regions like India. Here are the key takeaways from her enlightening interview.     

Q: How is AccionLAND revolutionizing early-warning systems through the integration of emerging technologies?

A: At AccionLAND, we operate through three distinct wings: Spatial Lab, Infrastructure Lab, and Advisory Services. Under the Spatial Lab, we deliver cutting-edge geospatial solutions, including an early flood warning decision support system. This system provides critical insights in the 48 hours leading up to a potential flooding event. Moreover, it details which areas are at risk, estimating inundation levels. The system also offers strategic recommendations for water management and irrigation.

Most importantly, the system communicates this information directly to local authorities to facilitate timely and effective responses. We have already implemented this pioneering system in the Ahmedabad Smart City project, showcasing our commitment to innovative, data-driven solutions that empower communities.

Q: What core technology powers real-time ground data collection, enabling your platform to deliver timely alerts to end users?

A: Our initial focus is on digitizing all ground data. This includes extensive datasets related to the water distribution network and elevation data sourced from satellite imagery. We then leverage advanced drone technology to capture high-resolution imagery, enhancing our ability to gather precise elevation information. To comprehensively understand water flow, we integrate hydrological analysis, employing a blend of these technologies to create a robust framework for effective water management.

Q: Consider a scenario where a flood alert is issued for a low-lying area but an embankment breach occurs upstream. How does your system detect such unforeseen events in actual time?

A: We provide a critical early warning, delivering insights 48 hours before a potential event to the relevant authorities. This proactive approach outlines the possible damages and challenges they may face, empowering them to take decisive action. Alongside these warnings, we offer specific, actionable recommendations. For instance, we advise on opening certain manholes and identifying areas where water can be redirected, equipping authorities with the strategies they need to mitigate impact effectively.

Q: Could you highlight some key clients currently utilizing your products? Additionally, what feedback are you receiving from them?  

A: We are actively collaborating with Aligarh, Bareilly, Tirunelveli, and Madurai, having successfully installed our solutions in Ahmedabad Smart City. Furthermore, we have partnered with the National Institute of Urban Affairs on this very project, and discussions with them are ongoing.

Similar to Ahmedabad, the response to our installation has been overwhelmingly positive. That marked our inaugural proof of concept. Additionally, all other cities have expressed keen interest in adopting our solution.

Q: How are you further innovating upon the solutions you’ve already developed?

A: We aspire to deliver even more granular data, enabling lane-wise solutions. While we currently provide ward-level insights, our next phase will encompass lane-wise and even house-wise analytics.

Q: What is the likelihood of errors occurring in your solution?

A: We deliver an impressive 90% accuracy; however, errors may arise if we receive inaccurate data. For instance, we rely on local government bodies for certain data points, and if their information is flawed, it could lead to discrepancies in our results. To mitigate this, we conduct thorough ground verification and leverage satellite imagery. Nevertheless, when we depend solely on departmental data, any changes in that information could introduce the potential for error.

Q: Could you provide insight into the ecosystem from which your solution extracts data?

A: We harness open-source satellite data and utilize our extensive drone networks for comprehensive surveys. Our drone-collected data is invaluable, yet we also rely on government bodies to provide essential information when a project is awarded to us. In instances where that isn’t feasible, we adeptly extract data from open-source systems and satellite images, even creating our own imagery to derive the necessary insights.

Q: Given India’s climatically volatile geography, what technological opportunities do you anticipate over the next five to ten years?

A: We are focusing on urban local bodies, particularly in major cities such as Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi. Here, the core issues extend beyond mere excessive rainfall; they lie in the city’s planning, encroachment on drainage systems, and insufficient drainage infrastructure. For the time being, our attention is predominantly directed toward these key urban centers.

AccionLAND Leveraging Spatial Data and Cutting-edge Tech for Early Warning
AccionLAND Leveraging Spatial Data and Cutting-edge Tech for Early Warning
About Author
TIW
View All Articles

1 Comment

  • Your writing is like a breath of fresh air in the often stale world of online content. Your unique perspective and engaging style set you apart from the crowd. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts