Smart cities are necessary as a solution for accelerating urbanisation

Building a smart city is no longer a dream but a necessity. New technologies are required to ensure that the city of today can be ready for the massive influx of humanity which population growth and urbanisation will combine to deliver. 

With advancements in technology and the way it is used, it is possible to create more sustainable, efficient, and liveable urban environments.

The most important aspect of building a smart city is to improve transportation systems. Modern cities grow at their edges, meaning longer commutes, more traffic and bigger frustrations for residents. This urban sprawl, if not aligned with new ways of thinking about commuting, recreation and shopping, threaten to choke cities even as they grow.

Intelligent transport systems improve quality of life and also contribute to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. It doesn't mean building new roads, it requires the integration of many levels of transportation to create a cohesive network. Cars, trains, bikes, walking, buses and last mile devices come together to offer residents of smart cities clean, safe, reliable and ubiquitous methods of completing their journeys. 

Critically, moving people from the periphery to the centre should leverage fast, high capacity, reliable and high frequency services. However planners also need to consider that residents will want to move around the periphery too; which should be achievable without travelling to the centre and then back out again.

Another crucial component of smart cities is high-density housing and walkable neighbourhoods. 

By designing compact, mixed-use developments with easy access to amenities and services, cities can foster vibrant communities that promote social interaction and reduce reliance on private vehicles. This not only enhances convenience but also contributes to a healthier lifestyle and reduces pollution. The concept of the fifteen minute city is important here, with every need of modern life met by facilities within a short walk of every home. 

All too often we see people forced to make car journeys because walking isn't an easy option. This cannot be a factor in cities which are twice or three times as populous as today.

In addition to better transport and walkability, smart cities prioritise low-traffic networks. 

By utilising data-driven approaches such as intelligent traffic management systems and real-time monitoring, cities can optimise traffic flow, minimise congestion hotspots, and improve overall road safety. By restricting access to residential streets and preventing them from becoming thoroughfares for drivers seeking shortcuts residents are more confident in using them to make use of their walkable city.

Building a smart city of the future involves integrating technology solutions into urban planning strategies. From enhancing transport systems to creating walkable neighbourhoods and implementing low-traffic networks, these initiatives will create more sustainable and liveable environments that better cater to the needs of future generations, help reduce the burden which cities place on the environment and create urban environments which are pleasant places to live.