Breaking Barriers: How AI is Revolutionizing Disaster Preparedness for Pakistan’s Deaf Community
In a groundbreaking move toward inclusivity, ConnectHear, South Asia’s leading assistive technology startup, has launched an innovative project aimed at ensuring Pakistan’s Deaf community receives life-saving information during emergencies. The project, titled “AI for Inclusive Disaster Response,” was unveiled at the Access.Ability.Tech. event in Karachi and marks a significant step in making disaster preparedness more accessible.
Why This Matters
Pakistan ranks among the top ten countries most vulnerable to climate-related disasters, facing frequent floods, earthquakes, and other emergencies. For the country’s 10 million+ Deaf individuals, accessing emergency alerts and critical safety instructions has always been a challenge. Traditional disaster response systems rely heavily on spoken and written communication, leaving those with hearing impairments at a disadvantage.
With this new initiative, ConnectHear is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and virtual sign language interpretation to bridge this communication gap. The project is backed by the GSMA Innovation Fund for Humanitarian Challenges and is supported by HANDS and Ufone 4G.
What the Experts Say
At the launch event, industry experts, humanitarian leaders, and tech specialists gathered to discuss the significance of inclusive disaster response.
Mr. Kamran Akbar, Senior Social Development Specialist at the World Bank, highlighted the moral and social responsibility of ensuring accessibility in crisis management. “Inclusive disaster response is not just a necessity but a responsibility. Leveraging AI to bridge communication gaps for Persons with Disabilities is a transformative step toward equitable crisis management.”
Similarly, Brigadier Tarique Quadir Lakhair, CEO of SIEHS-1122, emphasized the role of AI in making emergency response more inclusive. He praised the initiative, stating that such advancements are essential for ensuring Deaf individuals receive timely and critical support during emergencies.
How AI is Making a Difference
ConnectHear’s initiative introduces two key AI-powered technologies:
- Early Warning AI (EWAI): This system will automatically translate emergency alerts into sign language video messages, ensuring the Deaf community can quickly access critical information.
- Virtual Sign Language Interpretation Platform: The existing platform will be upgraded to work efficiently even in low-connectivity areas, making emergency communication more reliable.
To maximize impact, Ufone 4G will broadcast EWAI alerts across its network and waive data charges for the ConnectHear app, ensuring Deaf individuals can use these life-saving tools without financial barriers. Additionally, HANDS will train communities to use the technology effectively.
Collaboration for a Safer Future
A panel discussion at the event, moderated by Azima Dhanjee, CEO of ConnectHear, explored how technology and public-private partnerships can transform disaster response. Experts from UNICEF, HANDS, and Ufone 4G shared their insights, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in making crisis communication more inclusive.
Speaking about the technology, Arhum Ishtiaq, Co-Founder & CTO of ConnectHear, explained: “We’re not just translating information—we’re creating a system that proactively delivers life-saving messages in an instantly understandable format for the Deaf community.”
Looking Ahead
Starting with 1,000 beneficiaries, ConnectHear aims to expand the initiative nationwide by partnering with more organizations. By combining AI innovation with strategic partnerships, this project is set to redefine disaster preparedness for the Deaf community in Pakistan.
With technology breaking down communication barriers, this initiative is a powerful example of how inclusion can save lives—proving that no one should be left behind in times of crisis.
