Low-cost Disaster & Emergency Services for Communities At Risk

In association with

LODESTAR
Low cost Disaster & Emergency Services for Communities At Risk

We co-create low-cost, multi-hazard Early Warning Systems with communities in India and Netherlands by blending science, data, and citizen voices.

Coming soon

Study SiteGuwahati

Study SiteBengaluru

Study SiteAnantapur

Study SiteDordrecht

Study SiteGeertruidenberg

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Sensors installed across Guwahati for Real-time flood monitoring

Multiple sensors have been installed across key localities across Guwahati as part of the city’s efforts to enhance flood monitoring and preparedness. These advanced sensors measure water levels in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs without physical contact, monitor flow variations to detect rising levels and potential flooding, and provide real-time rainfall data to support early warning systems and disaster management initiatives.

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Sensors installed across Guwahati for Real-time flood monitoring

Core Mission

LODESTAR aims to co-create an inclusive, low-cost multi-hazard early warning system (MH-EWS) that helps communities prepare for and respond to floods, droughts, and compound disasters. By combining advanced science (AI, modelling, sensors) with citizen knowledge and local practices, LODESTAR strengthens resilience and bridges the gap between technology and society.

5 cities,
Flood & Drought challenges

We're piloting LODESTAR in 5 cities, each with distinct risks that help us design for real life.

India (3 Study Sites)

Netherlands (2 Study Sites)

DROUGHT / URBAN STRESS

Bengaluru

Rapid growth and water scarcity stress make Bengaluru vulnerable to drought and urban water supply challenges.

India

The Big Picture

This diagram maps the interconnections between WS1 to WS5, showing data, tools, and people coming together across India and the Netherlands.

Schematic showing inter-stream collaboration and system components.

Impact Pathway

Our strategic roadmap from research to real-world impact

Research & Development

Foundational research and technology development

Key Outcomes

Multi-hazard risk models developed
Community engagement frameworks established
Low-cost sensor networks deployed

Pilot Implementation

Testing systems with select communities

Key Outcomes

50+ communities actively participating
Real-time warning systems operational
Local capacity building programs running

System Integration

Scaling and connecting regional networks

Key Outcomes

Cross-border data sharing protocols
Government agency partnerships
Mobile app user base growing

Widespread Adoption

Full-scale deployment and sustainability

Key Outcomes

1M+ people covered by early warnings
Integrated into national DRR strategies
Self-sustaining community networks

About Work Streams

We start by understanding what communities actually need, then develop the technology to meet them. No fancy tech for tech's sake, just practical tools that work when it matters most.