Islamabad, Mar 20, 2025: ConnectHear, a pioneering assistive technology startup in South Asia, has unveiled its latest initiative, “AI for Inclusive Disaster Response,” at the Access.Ability.Tech event in Karachi.
This groundbreaking project harnesses artificial intelligence to bridge communication gaps for Pakistan’s Deaf community during emergencies.
Supported by the GSMA Innovation Fund for Humanitarian Challenges, in collaboration with HANDS and Ufone 4G, this initiative introduces AI-driven tools that ensure life-saving information is accessible to individuals with hearing impairments.
Given Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters, this project is a crucial step toward inclusive crisis management.
Revolutionizing Emergency Communication with AI
Pakistan ranks among the top ten countries most affected by climate disasters, yet emergency communication remains a significant challenge, especially for over 10 million Deaf individuals.
The AI-powered solution developed by ConnectHear aims to eliminate this barrier by providing instant, clear, and reliable information through sign language interpretation.
At the event, Mr. Kamran Akbar, Senior Social Development Specialist at the World Bank, highlighted the importance of inclusivity in disaster response.
He stated, “Ensuring accessible emergency communication is not just a necessity—it’s a responsibility.
AI has the power to transform crisis management for Persons with Disabilities, and ConnectHear is setting a new benchmark for inclusive preparedness.”
Brigadier Tarique Quadir Lakhair, CEO of SIEHS-1122, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing how AI-driven innovation is reshaping humanitarian efforts.
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He remarked, “By leveraging digital solutions, we can make emergency response systems more inclusive.
This initiative ensures that Deaf individuals receive critical alerts without delays, enhancing the overall efficiency of disaster relief efforts.”
Key Technologies Enhancing Disaster Preparedness
ConnectHear is integrating two core technologies to assist the Deaf community during emergencies:
- Early Warning AI (EWAI): This system will automatically generate sign language video alerts, ensuring that disaster warnings are instantly understandable.
- AI-Powered Virtual Interpretation: ConnectHear’s digital sign language interpretation platform will be upgraded to function efficiently, even in areas with poor internet connectivity.
To further extend the impact, Ufone 4G will facilitate the distribution of EWAI alerts across its network while removing data charges for the ConnectHear app.
HANDS will lead outreach and training programs to educate Deaf individuals and their families on utilizing these life-saving tools.
Starting with 1,000 beneficiaries, ConnectHear aims to scale this initiative by forming additional partnerships, reinforcing its commitment to making disaster response systems truly inclusive.
Through AI innovation and strong collaboration, this initiative is transforming emergency preparedness for Pakistan’s Deaf community
