University Unveils Real-Time AIoT Landslide Warning System

Pictures courtesy of Naewna

Walailak University researchers have launched a new low-cost real-time landslide warning network designed to operate autonomously even during power outages or internet failures. The system integrates AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things ) technology with LoRaWAN communication, AI-driven risk analysis and solar-powered sensor nodes, offering continuous monitoring for at-risk communities in Sichon district, Nakhon Si Thammarat. Local residents in high-risk zones can now receive timely alerts during the rainy season, improving preparedness and safety.

The project was developed by a research team from the School of Engineering and Technology and the School of Science, led by Associate Professor Dr Ajcharawej Chantaveerachon, with Asst Prof Dr Eshrat E. Alah, Assistant Professor Korakot Suwannarat, and Assistant Professor Dr Jantira Rattanarut. Funding support was provided by the Asia Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC) Foundation. The aim was to create a robust and affordable system for disaster-prone areas where traditional monitoring methods remain slow and inefficient.

Dr Ajcharawej explained that Theppharat and Si Khit subdistricts in Sichon are highly vulnerable, having faced repeated landslides affecting over 1,000 households. Existing surveillance systems lack the accuracy and speed required for rapid emergency response, prompting the team to pursue a proactive disaster-risk management approach. By combining IoT-based detection devices with AI analysis, the system can measure, interpret and issue targeted alerts quickly, reducing damage to lives and property.

The system uses a dual-layer communication network to ensure uninterrupted alert delivery in all scenarios. Under normal conditions, a gateway device transmits data from five sensor nodes for AI risk assessment before issuing alerts via the LINE application and a real-time web dashboard. During emergencies involving power or internet failure, LoRaWAN backup communication immediately relays warning signals to administrators, who then broadcast alerts to residents using handheld radio (red-channel) communication.

Naewna reported that all gateway units and sensor nodes operate on solar power, enabling 24-hour functionality regardless of external conditions. Each sensor node is placed in high-risk locations to monitor vibration, soil moisture, rainfall and slope angle, supported by GPS and data-logging functions for maximum precision. The research team emphasised that the system’s design ensures resilience, autonomy and practical use for vulnerable rural communities.

Key Takeaways

• The AIoT-based warning system provides real-time monitoring and alerts, even during power and internet failures.

• Five solar-powered sensor nodes track essential risk indicators including vibration, soil moisture, rainfall, and slope angle.

• The system targets landslide-prone communities in Sichon district, benefiting more than 1,000 households.

 Adapted  by  Asean  Now from Naewna 2025-11-21