Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has launched the ToltHawk IoT Telemetry System, a new flood warning system designed to improve real-time monitoring amid rising climate-related risks. Irrigation Minister Riaz Khan said modern technology is essential to protect lives and property from floods, glacial lake outbursts, heavy rains, droughts, heatwaves and landslides. He spoke at a ceremony marking the system’s launch, which coincided with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the KP Irrigation Department, ToltHawk USA and Flow Sense Global Pvt. Ltd.
Riaz Khan noted that the province faced major floods in 2010, 2014 and 2022. More than two million people were affected in the 2022 floods alone. Therefore, he said, the province urgently needs better early warning infrastructure. The new telemetry system will provide real-time data on water levels, flood risks and environmental conditions. This data will help authorities make timely decisions and issue warnings to vulnerable communities.
According to the minister, telemetry devices are already operational at three key locations. These include Dehri Bridge in Swat, Nowshera Bridge, and Kurram River Kohat Road Bridge in Bannu. He added that live data streaming and integration with the Decision Support System are both complete. Meanwhile, the government continues to strengthen flood protection infrastructure, expand water storage and improve the wider irrigation network.
The minister said a comprehensive flood protection plan covering 15 districts has already received approval. He also highlighted the Chashma Right Bank Canal project, which will bring roughly 286,000 acres of barren land in Dera Ismail Khan under cultivation. Additional projects are underway as well, aimed at reducing flood risks and improving water management across the province.
Finally, Riaz Khan said the government wants to move beyond post-disaster relief. Instead, officials plan to focus on preparedness, timely warnings and technology-based solutions to protect lives going forward. This shift reflects a broader push toward proactive disaster management rather than reactive recovery efforts.
