Maintaining embankments is a critical task, but traditional inspection methods had become increasingly unsustainable. Manual checks were time-consuming, difficult to scale and no longer sufficient to keep up with growing risks and expanding data volumes.

At the same time, HHNK was collecting more data than ever before. Drone footage, satellite images and other structured and unstructured data sources provided valuable insights, but were difficult to manage and analyse effectively. The challenge was clear: HHNK needed a way to turn this growing volume of data into actionable intelligence.

Together with RevoData, HHNK implemented a data platform built on Databricks and Mosaic. The platform makes it possible to securely manage large datasets and easily access both data and metadata. By annotating drone footage, RevoData trained a model capable of recognising damage to embankments and predicting potential ruptures before they become critical.

This approach allows HHNK to digitally view all embankments in one place and immediately flag areas where urgent maintenance is required. Instead of relying solely on reactive inspections, the organisation can now apply predictive maintenance, prioritising repairs based on data-driven insights and reducing long-term risk.

With this solution in place, HHNK has taken a leading position within the water management sector. In 2024, the project was awarded the Innovation in Water Management prize, and other water authorities are now exploring how the same approach can be adopted within their own regions.

The collaboration between HHNK and RevoData shows how data platforms and AI can play a crucial role in safeguarding critical infrastructure. By combining advanced analytics with practical domain knowledge, HHNK has built a future-ready foundation that helps protect the Netherlands from flooding, today and in the years to come.

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