Smart cities promise efficiency but risk leaving people behind, experts warn
By
SMG International
Summary
The article examines the rapid adoption of smart city technologies worldwide, showcased at the World Urban Forum in Baku. It highlights both the promise of AI-powered transit, digital twins, and flood-proof infrastructure, and the critical pitfalls around inclusion, trust, privacy, and security. Using Shanghai as a key example, the piece argues that the success of smart cities ultimately depends on centering people — not just technology — in urban planning and governance.
Source
bskySmart cities promise efficiency but risk leaving people behind, experts warnnews.un.orgKey quotes
· 3 pulledAt a sprawling urban expo in Baku, visitors paused before giant digital screens flickering with flood simulations, subway control systems and virtual replicas of entire neighbourhoods.
Few cities illustrate the scale of smart-city ambition quite like Shanghai.
But as innovation accelerates, experts warn that inclusion, trust and security will determine who truly benefits.
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