Smart City and its Characteristics

Smart City is an urban settlement known for its sustainable developmental policies. A city is smart when it is capable of tapping from its rich amounts of natural and human resources, for consistent growth and development. A smart city is also referred to as sustainable city or green city with its eco-friendly nature.

In recent times, the idea of a smart city has dominated discussions in various policy arenas. The aim is geared towards the building of an intelligent or digital city that can sustain itself by using its own natural resources.

Basic Characteristics

A smart city is known for the following characteristics:

• 6 major dimensions

There are 6 major dimensions to look out for in a smart city. These include: smart mobility, smart economy, smart environment, smart living conditions, smart governance and smart residents. These are not wishes; they are worked out through consistent planning and policy programs.

• Proper Infrastructure development

If there must be a sustainable development in a smart city, there ought to be proper infrastructure development. Effective road networks must be put in place. Nice, green buildings ought to be erected under well defined building plans. ICT networks, Satellite TV networks, internet services, e-commerce and others have to be put in place in order to achieve a true smart city.

• Proper Waste and Water Management

Smart cities, also known as Sustainable cities, must have proper wastewater management in place. Waste generation is a common phenomenon in most urban cities. However, when properly managed, waste products can become sources of usable energy supply and fertilizer products. Water management is also a must for the establishment of a smart city. There must be proper drainage systems and water bore-holes for clean and drinkable water.

• Tapping of Renewable Energy Sources

A Smart city can become a reality when the renewable energy resources in the city are properly tapped and utilized. Such renewable energy includes solar, biomass, wind etc. There must be a decrease in the use of non-renewable energy if the city is to become sustainable.

• Food Sustenance

A Smart city should be able to feed its citizens independently. This is possible when diverse agricultural systems are activated in the city. There should be a consistent development of agricultural policies. Effective use of agricultural lands and plantations should be encouraged. This ensures that there will be enough food for the masses.

Finally, there must be proper house planning in the city. Industries, workstations and markets should be separated from residential quarters. This improves the living standards of the residents.