The Saudi company Sadeem has created the first multi-patented flood and traffic information system with active networks in the world. The wireless sensing systems startup made its first steps at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.
Using a mix of sensor networks, mobile apps, and visualization tools, it monitors and forecasts traffic and floods in real-time. Sadeem can provide early warnings between half an hour to six hours before the disaster. In addition to that, it also advises people which routes to avoid in case of flooding and educate them how to react in emergency situations. It could prevent damages by at least 30%, claimed the founder, Mustafa Mousa.
The ambitious project launched last year but the idea dated back in 2009 when there were major floodings in Jeddah and Makkah. A team of engineers, researchers, and urban planners have been working hard to find a solution. They approached the local authorities in underdeveloped areas looking for investments.
The product uses cellular networks and a power grid. The sensors detect the water level and monitor the traffic. All the information is sent to the servers via a wireless signal. The potentially dangerous zones are marked on a map to inform the drivers and the authorities.
Mousa is also actively involved in developing the Saudi startup ecosystem. He firmly believes in its potential:
Young people with ideas should start right away. With the right mindset, vision, resources, and skills to implement the action plan, they can make a huge impact.