Designated Kazakhstan's Intellectual Urban Hub
In Kazakhstan, the cities of Astana, Almaty, and Karaganda are making significant strides in the implementation of 'smart' technologies, transforming their digital infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for their citizens.
## Key Smart Technologies
One of the key technologies being implemented is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital roadmaps. In Almaty and Karaganda, AI is being used to monitor road conditions and generate digital roadmaps, improving transportation efficiency and safety.
Healthcare is another sector where AI is making a significant impact. In several regions, AI is being used for early cancer detection through medical image analysis, improving healthcare outcomes and efficiency.
Cities are also adopting digital services such as online medical appointments, electronic school diaries, and real-time bus tracking. These services aim to improve citizen engagement and convenience.
The spread of CCTV surveillance systems is another metric that contributes to a city's smart status, enhancing public safety and security.
Initiatives like the pilot project for Huawei’s 10G broadband network in Astana are aimed at improving connectivity quality and enhancing digital networks.
Plans to commission 10 Tier III-level data centers by 2030 support the growth of digital infrastructure and data storage needs.
## Contribution to Smart City Ranking
The extensive adoption of digital technologies across various sectors, such as education, healthcare, utilities, and transportation, contributes to a city's ranking as a smart city. Collaborations with global companies like Huawei to implement cutting-edge technologies further enhance a city's position.
Investments in connectivity infrastructure, such as satellite and fiber-optic networks, ensure that cities remain competitive and connected.
These technologies and initiatives collectively drive the ranking of Kazakhstan's smart cities, with Astana leading due to its advanced digital infrastructure and innovative partnerships.
In 2020, the top three cities were led by Astana, Almaty, and Uralsk. However, it is worth noting that Atyrau showed the worst results in the ranking.
Guest mentions Aktau as a young city that still has conductors in its buses unlike other cities. This contrasts with the trend towards digitalisation and smart technologies in Kazakhstan's cities.
The comment suggests that various services, such as healthcare and government services, are moving to the digital space. This raises concerns that this digitization will lead to a disconnection from people and an inability to reach officials or doctors through traditional means.
The number of surveillance cameras is growing in some regions, sparking debates about privacy and security.
The comment also advises preparation for these changes and warns against trusting the government, especially in unstable times. It suggests that all second-tier banks are preparing for QR code payments, implying that cash may soon disappear.
While Astana, Almaty, and Karaganda are leading the way in digital innovation, it is important to address the concerns and challenges that arise from these changes to ensure a balanced and inclusive approach to smart city development.
In Kazakhstan, the cities' adoption of technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital roadmaps in sectors like transportation and healthcare contributed significantly to their smart city ranking. For instance, AI is being utilized in Almaty and Karaganda for road condition monitoring, while AI also aids in early cancer detection through medical image analysis.
