ArticlePDF Available

Understanding the Transformation of Cities into Smart Cities_A Sustainable Urban Environment Perspective

Authors:
  • Priyadarshini Institute of Architecture and Design Studies
  • Priyadarshini Institute of Architecture and Design Studies, Nagpur

Abstract and Figures

As we are aware of current demographic conditions, the urban sprawl, and promoting compact city growth, high-density planning towards achieving sustainability. For uplifting the existing status of today's city environment technology has played and played a major role. As cities become 'engines of growth' with their share in the global economy and wealth their size, growth rate, and distribution of the population matter a lot in urban reforms. It is important to ensure that cities are modified to achieve maximum efficiency and sustainability while enhancing the quality of life in the city. Transforming normal cities to smart cities by exploring the use of ever-improving technology to its extent, will be a stepping stone. The use of Radio-frequency identification (RIFD), Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), Artificial intelligence (AI), Augmented reality (AR), Internet of Things (IoT) are being implemented in many different models to achieve smart city objectives. It does seem the involvement of IT professionals only, but architects, urban planners, and designers are the ones, to carefully plan the implementation of these technology and develop the technology roadmap (TRM) of a smart city. As urbanization continues to accelerate globally, the integration of smart technologies offers opportunities to enhance efficiency, resilience, and the overall quality of life in urban environments. This paper delves into the key components of smart cities, their impact on sustainability, and the challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation in public places. This research paper aims to study the role of technology in the improvisation of public places in smart cities, concerning Environmental Variables & Sustainable Environment and some real-time context-aware scenarios. This research paper explores the multifaceted transformation of cities into smart cities, primarily focusing on fostering sustainability. This study will be useful to the architectural fraternity to think about infusing the technology at the initial concept stage of planning that will add to the well-being of society at large
Content may be subject to copyright.
Volume 5 Issue 4 | 2024 | 177 Architecture Engineering and Science
Understanding the Transformation of Cities into Smart Cities: A
Sustainable Urban Environment Perspective
Tushar Bokhad1, Rupesh Surwade1, Abhishek Bangre1, Mohammad Arif Kamal2,*
1 Priyadarshini Institute of Architecture and Design Studies, Nagpur, India
2 Architecture Section, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
* Corresponding Author: architectarif@gmail.com
DOI: 10.32629/aes.v5i4.3144
Abstract: As we are aware of current demographic conditions, the urban sprawl, and promoting compact city growth,
high-density planning towards achieving sustainability. For uplifting the existing status of today’s city environment tech-
nology has played and played a major role. As cities become ‘engines of growth’ with their share in the global economy
and wealth their size, growth rate, and distribution of the population matter a lot in urban reforms. It is important to ensure
that cities are modied to achieve maximum eciency and sustainability while enhancing the quality of life in the city.
Transforming normal cities to smart cities by exploring the use of ever-improving technology to its extent, will be a step-
ping stone. The use of Radio-frequency identication (RIFD), Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), Arti-
cial intelligence (AI), Augmented reality (AR), Internet of Things (IoT) are being implemented in many dierent models
to achieve smart city objectives. It does seem the involvement of IT professionals only, but architects, urban planners, and
designers are the ones, to carefully plan the implementation of these technology and develop the technology roadmap (TRM)
of a smart city. As urbanization continues to accelerate globally, the integration of smart technologies oers opportunities
to enhance eciency, resilience, and the overall quality of life in urban environments. This paper delves into the key com-
ponents of smart cities, their impact on sustainability, and the challenges and opportunities associated with their implemen-
tation in public places. This research paper aims to study the role of technology in the improvisation of public places in
smart cities, concerning Environmental Variables & Sustainable Environment and some real-time context-aware scenarios.
This research paper explores the multifaceted transformation of cities into smart cities, primarily focusing on fostering
sustainability. This study will be useful to the architectural fraternity to think about infusing the technology at the initial
concept stage of planning that will add to the well-being of society at large
Keywords: Internet of Things (IoT), smart city, environmental sustainability, urban urbanization,
1. Introduction
Globally, 1.3 million people are moving to cities each week and as anticipated in by 2040, more than 65% of the
world’s population will live in cities. Urbanization is an ongoing physical process. Environmental, social, and economic sus-
tainability should be at pace with this rapid expansion that is burdensome on the city’s resources (Surwade et al., 2023a). To
cater to the needs and challenges related to the increased population concept of a Smart City is being developed to provide
complex systems of infrastructure and give a decent quality of life to its citizens, a clean and sustainable environment, and
the application of ‘Smart’ Solutions. A Smart City provides an intelligent way to ameliorate factors similar to the quality of
the air and water, transport, health, energy, homes and structures communication systems, and the sustainable environment.
Indeed though there isn’t a complete description of smart cities, the most common aspect of its connections between dif-
ferent subsystems of the city, for illustration, is the surveillance system and the traffic control system. There are numerous
features to the smart environment such as autonomy, adaptive behavior to the sustainable environment, and commerce with
humans simply. The application of Smart Solutions covering larger parts of the city for improvement (retrofitting), city re-
newal (redevelopment), and city extension (Greenfield development) can address growing urbanization challenges. The cost
of the city’s physical infrastructure and services can be reduced with improved sustainability where a smart city ecosystem
encourages the citizens to use resources efficiently. The smart city will ultimately be facilitated by the “Internet of Things,”
which can be thought of as a latticed digital network facilitating interconnectedness throughout the built and sustainable
environment. Concept of smart cities is multidimensional and based on IoT and information communication technologies
which are the network of smart and connected objects in real time over IP address (Surwade et al., 2023)
Assessing the sustainable performance of IoT-enabled smart cities is a complex task that involves multiple factors
such as energy efficiency, waste management, transportation, and water conservation, among others. The integration of
Architecture Engineering and Science 178 | Tushar Bokhad, et al.
IoT technology in urban infrastructure can provide real-time data and insights that can help city planners and policymakers
make informed decisions to improve the overall sustainability of the city (Surwade et al., 2023). The objective is to evalu-
ate the impact of IoT technologies on the sustainable performance of Smart Cities and identify key indicators for assessing
sustainability in the context of IoT-enabled urban environments. This study will analyze the evolution of cities into smart
cities through IoT integration keeping the goal of sustainability while using technology and data for efficiency, sensitivity,
and sustainability. To assess the sustainable performance of a smart city, several indicators can be considered, such as the
percentage of renewable energy sources used, the amount of waste diverted from landfills, the number of electric vehicles on
the roads, the availability and quality of public transport, and the efficiency of water management systems. Increased density
of urban population leads to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These indicators can provide a comprehensive picture of the
city’s sustainability performance and help identify areas for improvement.
Community engagement and participation play a crucial role in the success of a smart city. Citizens’ involvement
in decision-making processes and the implementation of sustainable initiatives can help create a sense of ownership and
commitment towards the city’s sustainability goals. For the adoption and acceptance of IOT-enabled smart cities oriented
towards sustainability environmental, economic, and social dimensions discussed in the study. Therefore, it is essential to
consider the social, economic, and environmental impacts of smart city initiatives and ensure that they benefit all members of
the community (Surwade et al., 2023). The objective is to evaluate the impact of IoT on urban sustainability and performance
and also to identify challenges and opportunities associated with the implementation of IoT-enabled solutions in cities.
2. Literature Review
The review of existing literature on Smart Cities, IoT technologies, and their contributions to sustainability analyze case
studies of IoT implementation in Smart Cities worldwide. Highlight gaps and limitations in current research that the study
aims to address. “A Smart Sustainable City is an revolutionary town that makes use of Information and Communication
Technologies (ICTs) and different manner to enhance nice of life, performance of city operation and services, and Competi-
tiveness at the same time as making sure that it meets the wishes of gift and destiny generations regarding economic, social,
environmental in addition to cultural aspects” (ITU-T FG-SSC, 2014).
A large number of IoT devices are operated from a common place for the functioning of a smart city, integrated with
modern wireless technologies and wireless sensor networks, providing powerful, intelligent, and flexible support for people
living in cities. Antonio Aguilar and Chanipa Prommuangdee in their Insight paper, discussed creating norms for using tech-
nology and very detailed planning to create built environments that are self-monitoring, self-configuring, self-diagnosing,
and self-correcting(Praharaj, no date). It would help to ensure an optimized user experience in real time with the use of data
as a key ingredient. With technological advancement in the form of sensors, automation, ubiquitous network interconnec-
tion systems, and robust data processing, the result is a high degree of efficiency in terms of space, time, cost, maintenance
requirements, and environmental performance. Smart cities, as defined by author Anthony Townsend, are “places where
information technology is combined with infrastructure, architecture, everyday objects, and even our bodies to address so-
cial, economic, and environmental concerns. The goal of the Internet of Things is to enable things to be connected anytime,
anyplace with anything and anyone ideally using a path/network and any service (Bandyopadhyay et al., 2022)
The collection of large data generated from many sources, its analysis and synthesis towards directing informed actions
and making decisions automatically or semi-automatically intelligently shaping the ecosystem of smart cities. All the critical
infrastructures within the cities can be monitored towards better optimization of resources, deciding preventive maintenance
activities along with security aspects of citizens (Bandyopadhyay et al.,2022).
An IoT ecosystem consists of Web-enabled smart devices that use integrated processors, sensors and communication
hardware to collect, send, and act on the data acquired from their environments. In an artificial system, the use of inform-
ative communication, if in case applied to automobiles connected through a wireless communication network, where each
car is completely automatic, and could communicate with another car in the vicinity (Bandyopadhyay et al., 2022). They
may want to cruise down the dual carriageway swiftly and safely. Design: the deliberate shaping of the environment in ways
that satisfy individual and societal needs. What does the rise of smart machines mean for designers? The future puts new
demands on designers. In the past, we had to think about how people would interact with technology. Today we also need to
take the machine’s point of view, their interaction, symbiosis, and cooperation both with people and other smart machines. In
the last decade, due to the demand to reduce energy and operational costs, building automation is been preferred and given
importance.
A major concern of Increasing Urban sprawl hampering built environment performance. The methods and tools avail-
able for building environmental assessment such as BREEAM Communities, CASBEE for Urban Development, and LEED
Volume 5 Issue 4 | 2024 | 179 Architecture Engineering and Science
for Neighborhood Development are not enough (Bandyopadhyay et al., 2022). IoT has the potential to overcome challenges
of environmental sustainability with the improvement in city infrastructure spatial organizations, transport and traffic sys-
tems, mobility and travel behavior, land-use patterns, building automation, smart parking, smart lighting, and smart waste
collection by effectively managing the data received from these different sources (Bandyopadhyay et al., 2022). The data
collected from the study of existing literature discuss the components of the IoT systems architecture, listing identification,
sensing, communication, computation, services, and semantics. IoT is like a future internet considered as a system of linked
devices, computing mechanisms along data to exchange and cooperate with actuators at ease towards financial benefits
(Mehta, 2019).
3. Research Methodology
The study is organized to identify key metrics and data sources for measuring the impact of IoT technologies on sus-
tainability. Evaluation of the sustainable performance of Smart Cities by understanding its components and elucidating
sustainable cities components. The study is conducted to understand smart cities as a concept and comprehensive assess-
ment framework incorporating environmental, social, and economic indicators. Conducted a comparison of smart cities and
sustainable cities with an environmental perspective and its amalgamation towards the development of sustainable smart
cities. Understanding the confounding variables that are considered for the ranking of smart cities are studied in this paper.
4. Components of Smart City
The key part of smart city development is the Application programming interface (API) allowing software engineers to
interact with different components, resources, and data repositories to retrieve the information needed to improve the city.
Smart cities are urban areas that leverage technology and data to improve the quality of life for residents, enhance sustain-
ability, and streamline city operations(‘JGPP-Jan-June-2022-To-upload-on-IPE-Website’, no date). The components and
parameters of a smart city can vary depending on the specific goals, challenges, and resources of each city. However, some
common components and parameters include:
4.1 Smart infrastructure
It includes effective transport with high speed and low accident transport and real estate with the reduction in construc-
tion materials having efficient and optimal design towards achieving sustainability, integrated with technology and reducing
the emission (Mavropoulos et al., 2021).
4.2 Smart Energy and Water Management
The extent of the smart grid and the use of renewable resources with full potential for balancing the limited and deplet-
ing energy sources. Reducing scarcity of potable water by smartly using water runoff and harvesting and by implementing
smart water supply management.
4.3 Smart Information and Communication System
The extent of ICT usage in public systems to ease the processes involved in real-time data transfer and monitoring using
smart metering for controlling the usage. Smart cities rely on ICT infrastructure to collect, analyse, and disseminate data
for various purposes, such as traffic management, energy optimization, and public safety (Mavropoulos et al., 2021). This
includes sensors, IoT devices, data analytics platforms, and communication networks. Smart cities generate vast amounts of
data from various sources, including sensors, mobile devices, and social media. Effective data management and analytics are
crucial for extracting actionable insights, predicting trends, and optimizing city operations (Praharaj, et al., 2018).
4.4 Smart Education and Research
The extent of literacy amongst the population, improved level of education reflecting societal development. Connected
educational institutions promoting the importance of research for innovation and development by participating population.
4.5 Economic Development
Smart cities foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth by supporting digital industries, startup ecosys-
tems, and knowledge-based economies. Parameters include job creation, business innovation, digital inclusion, and econom-
ic competitiveness.
Architecture Engineering and Science 180 | Tushar Bokhad, et al.
濇濡濕濦濨澔
澹濘濩濗濕濨濝濣濢澔
濕濢濘澔
濆濙濧濙濕濦濗濜
澹濗濣濢濣濡濝濗澔
澸濙濪濙濠濣濤濡濙
濢濨
濇濡濕濦濨澔
澽濢濚濦濕濧濨濦濩濗濨濩濦濙澔
濁濣濖濝濠濝濨濭澔濕濢濘澔
濈濦濕濢濧濤濣濦濨濕濨濝濣濢
濄濩濖濠濝濗澔
濇濙濦濪濝濗濙濧澔澚澔
澷濝濨濝濮濙濢澔
澹濢濛濕濛濙濡濙濢
濨澠澔濅濩濕濠濝濨濭澔濣濚澔
激濝濚濙
濇濡濕濦濨澔
澽濢濚濣濦濡濕濨濝濣濢澔
濕濢濘澔
澷濣濡濡濩濢濝濗濕
濨濝濣濢澔濇濭濧濨濙濡
濇濡濕濦濨澔
澹濢濙濦濛濭澔濕濢濘澔
濋濕濨濙濦澔
濁濕濢濕濛濙濡濙
濢濨
濆濙濧濝濠濝濙濢濗濙澔
濕濢濘澔
濇濙濗濩濦濝濨濭
澸濕濨濕澔
濁濕濢濕濛濙濡濙
濢濨澔濕濢濘澔
澵濢濕濠濭濨濝濗濧
Figure 1. The components of smart city conguration
In the urban and semi-urban spaces, one of the other major concerns is street lighting. Either the street lights do not
get switched on in the evenings or do not get turned off in the mornings. What appears insignificant daily consumes tons of
electricity in the long run (Hayat, 2016). To eliminate both consequences, street lights can be replaced with smart street lights
that do not expect human intervention to illuminate the streets and roads. Energy-efficient buildings must be designed to sig-
nificantly reduce energy use, especially heating and cooling. The decrease in energy use can be performed when reducing the
demand for energy by avoiding waste and implementing energy-saving measures (Raghani et al., 2023). Waste energy can
be avoided by having good insulation, air tightness, and ventilation. Smart mobility solutions aim to improve transportation
efficiency, reduce congestion, and enhance accessibility. Components include intelligent transportation systems, real-time
traffic monitoring, public transit enhancements, bike-sharing programs, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure (Al-Ghabra,
2022) (Surwade et al, 2024)
5. Case Studies
The study ranked cities based on their adoption of smart grid technologies, intelligent lighting, traffic improvement IT,
Wi-Fi access, smartphone penetration, and app landscape. Here’s a summary of the findings:
5.1 Singapore
Widely adopted contactless payment for public transport, digital health systems, wearable IoT devices, road sensors,
phased traffic lights, and smart parking. Leading in transport network innovation.
5.2 Helsinki, Finland
Aims for carbon neutrality by 2035. Reducing traffic emissions, transitioning city buses to electric, expanding Metro
and electric car charging, and enhancing building energy efficiency.
5.3 Zurich, Switzerland
Started with adaptive streetlights, leading to 70% energy savings. Expanded sensory technologies for environmental
data, traffic flow, public Wi-Fi, and smart building management.
5.4 Oslo, Norway
Plans for all vehicles to go electric by 2025. Incentives for zero-emission cars include free parking, bus lane access, and
lower taxes. Aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050.
5.5 Amsterdam, Netherlands
Over 170 smart city projects since 2009. Renewable energy for garbage trucks, solar-powered bus stops, floating vil-
Volume 5 Issue 4 | 2024 | 181 Architecture Engineering and Science
lages, and extensive use of energy-efficient technologies.
5.6 New York, USA
Smart sensors for waste management, smart hubs with contactless technology, Wi-Fi, charging stations, and extensive
car-sharing services to reduce emissions and congestion.
5.7 Seoul, South Korea
Data-driven smart infrastructure. Sensors and CCTV monitor traffic, air quality, and support initiatives for the elderly.
Emergency services alerted by environmental sensors.
5.8 Barcelona, Spain
Uses sensors for traffic management, smart parking, streetlights, air quality, and noise monitoring. Expanded public
Wi-Fi and innovative water conservation systems with smart irrigation. Focus on sustainable energy and reducing carbon
emissions.
Below is a comparative analysis of the mentioned cities based on their ranking and performance as smart sustainable
cities (Bholey, 2017a). The criteria often used for such rankings include technology, infrastructure, mobility, sustainability,
and quality of life.
Table 1. Comparative analysis of smart cities based on their ranking and performance
City Country Smart City
Ranking Sustainability Technology Mobility Infrastructure Quality of Life
Singapore Singapore 1 High Very High High Very High High
Helsinki Finland 3 Very High High High High Very High
Zurich Switzerland 2 Very High High High High Very High
Oslo Norway 4 Very High High High High Very High
Amsterdam Netherlands 5 High High Very High High High
New York USA 10 Medium High Very High High High
Barcelona Spain 8 High High High High High
Notes:
Smart City Ranking: General position in global smart city rankings.
Sustainability: Efforts and initiatives towards environmental sustainability.
Technology: Integration of advanced technologies in city management and services.
Mobility: Efficient and sustainable transportation systems.
Infrastructure: Quality and modernity of city infrastructure.
Quality of Life: Overall living conditions including healthcare, education, and safety.
This table provides a snapshot based on common metrics used in various smart city rankings. Specific rankings and
positions can vary depending on the organization conducting the assessment.
6. Findings from the Case Studies
The core infrastructure elements in a smart city would include:
· Use of sensors to monitor and manage traffic.
· Plans to remodel traffic flow to reduce it by 21%.
· Smart parking, streetlights, air quality, and noise sensors.
· Expanding free Wi-Fi in public spaces.
· Smart grid pilot projects, smart meters, and a plan to reduce carbon emissions.
· Developed smart irrigation systems to address drought issues by analyzing and responding to rain forecasts.
· Introduction of smart hubs with contactless technology, WiFi, and online charging stations
· Renewable energy for electric garbage trucks, solar-powered bus stops, billboards, and lights.
· Incentives for zero-emission cars: free parking, bus lane access, lower taxes, and toll prices.
· Started with a streetlight project using adaptive sensors for energy savings of up to 70%.
· Expanded smart streetlights and sensory technologies citywide.
· Established smart building management systems for heating, electricity, and cooling.
Architecture Engineering and Science 182 | Tushar Bokhad, et al.
7. Internet of Things (IoT) Ecosystem
Internet of Things (IoT) Examining how IoT devices and sensors contribute to data collection, analysis, and deci-
sion-making for improved city management (Ibraigheeth, 2023). Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) In-
vestigating the role of ICT infrastructure in enabling connectivity, communication, and data sharing among various urban
systems. Conscious efforts for the development of urban settlements into smart ones with the landscape of capitalized Infor-
mation and Communications Technology (ICT) in a strategic way to gain prosperity, effectiveness, and competitiveness on
multiple socio-economic levels. Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Exploring how data analytics and AI enhance
predictive modelling, optimize resource allocation, and improve the overall urban planning (Abbas and Syed, 2022).
8. Benefits of IoT in Urban Design and Planning
8.1 Enhanced Data Collection and Analysis
a) Real-Time Data Collection: IoT devices can continuously gather data on various urban parameters such as traffic
flow, air quality, noise levels, and energy consumption.
b) Comprehensive Data Analysis: Advanced analytics can process this data to provide insights into urban dynamics,
helping planners make informed decisions (Gaur et al., 2015).
8.2 Efficient Resource Management
a) Energy Efficiency: Smart grids and energy management systems can optimize electricity distribution, reducing wast-
age and enhancing sustainability.
b) Water Management: IoT-enabled sensors can monitor water usage, detect leaks, and manage distribution, ensuring
efficient use of water resources.
8.3 Improved Transportation Systems
a) Traffic Management: IoT can monitor and manage traffic flow, reducing congestion and improving transportation
efficiency (Garg et al., 2023).
b) Public Transit Optimization: Real-time data from IoT devices can optimize public transit routes and schedules, en-
hancing service reliability and efficiency (Gaur et al., 2015).
8.4 Enhanced Environmental Monitoring
a) Air Quality Monitoring: Sensors can measure pollutants and provide real-time air quality data, helping to address
pollution issues.
b) Waste Management: Smart waste bins and IoT-enabled waste management systems can optimize collection routes
and schedules, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
8.5 Smart Infrastructure and Buildings
a) Building Management Systems: IoT can enhance the management of building systems such as HVAC, lighting, and
security, improving energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
b) Infrastructure Monitoring: IoT sensors can monitor the health of infrastructure such as bridges, roads, and tunnels,
enabling predictive maintenance and reducing the risk of failures.
8.6 Enhanced Public Safety
a) Surveillance and Security: IoT-enabled cameras and sensors can improve surveillance and security, helping to reduce
crime rates.
b) Emergency Response: IoT can enhance emergency response systems by providing real-time data to first responders,
improving their ability to manage emergencies (Ibraigheeth, 2023).
8.7 Citizen Engagement and Participation
a) E-Participation Platforms: IoT can facilitate greater citizen engagement through online platforms that allow residents
to participate in urban planning processes.
b) Smart Apps: Mobile applications can provide citizens with information about city services, events, and infrastruc-
ture, enhancing their connection to the urban environment.
8.8 Geo-Referenced Systems and GIS Applications
a) Urban Mapping and Simulation: GIS applications and geo-referenced systems can create detailed maps and simula-
Volume 5 Issue 4 | 2024 | 183 Architecture Engineering and Science
tions of urban areas, helping planners visualize and analyze spatial data.
b) Land Use Planning: These tools can assist in land use planning by providing accurate, real-time data on land use
patterns and trends.
8.9 Cloud Technologies
a) Data Storage and Access: Cloud technologies provide scalable storage solutions for the vast amounts of data gener-
ated by IoT devices, ensuring easy access and management.
b) Collaboration and Integration: Cloud platforms enable collaboration among various stakeholders in urban planning,
facilitating the integration of diverse data sources and tools.
IoT technologies offer numerous benefits for urban design and planning by providing enhanced data collection, ef-
ficient resource management, improved transportation systems, and greater citizen engagement. The integration of GIS
applications, cloud technologies, and geo-referenced systems further enhances these capabilities, enabling planners to create
smarter, more sustainable urban environments (Ibraigheeth, 2023).
9. Sustainability in Smart Cities
Sustainability in Smart Cities focuses on creating urban environments that balance economic growth, environmental
protection, and social well-being (Abbas and Syed, 2022). It leverages advanced technologies, innovative designs, and ef-
fective policies to enhance the quality of life for residents while minimizing ecological footprints (Jain et al., 2022). The key
aspects include:
a) Resource Efficiency: Utilizing IoT, big data, and smart grids to optimize the use of energy, water, and other resources,
reducing waste and promoting conservation.
b) Transportation: Implementing smart transportation systems that reduce congestion, lower emissions, and provide
efficient, accessible public transit options.
c) Green Buildings: Promoting the construction and retrofitting of buildings to meet sustainable standards, improving
energy efficiency, and reducing carbon footprints.
d) Waste Management: Using smart waste management systems that enhance recycling efforts, reduce landfill usage,
and convert waste into energy.
e) Citizen Engagement: Encouraging public participation through e-participation platforms and social media, ensuring
that citizens have a voice in urban planning and decision-making processes.
f) Economic Growth: Fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through smart infrastructure and policies that attract
businesses and create job opportunities.
g) Quality of Life: Enhancing the livability of cities by improving public services, healthcare, education, and recreation-
al facilities through the integration of smart technologies (Kamal et al., 2024).
h) Environmental Protection: Implementing policies and technologies that reduce pollution, protect natural habitats,
and promote biodiversity.
Sustainable Smart Cities aim to create resilient, adaptable urban environments that can thrive in the face of challenges
such as climate change, population growth, and resource scarcity. By integrating technology and innovation with sustainable
practices, these cities strive to improve the overall quality of life for their residents while ensuring the long-term health of
the planet (Praharaj et al, 2018).
10. Conclusions
In conclusion, while Smart City initiatives promise significant economic benefits and contribute to social progress, ef-
fectively strategizing and executing these plans remains challenging for institutions. The equitable management of resources
is crucial for sustaining and enhancing urban assets (Bholey, 2017). Technological advancements and automation are driving
Smart City developments globally, aligning with the European Union’s agenda. Despite being a relatively new concept,
Smart Cities are gaining traction worldwide. Future studies should focus on quantifying these economic benefits through
management and innovation theories to further economic sustainability and enhance human productivity. In conclusion,
Smart City initiatives in India aim to enhance urban efficiency and achieve sustainable urbanization through technology,
design, innovation, and policy reforms. However, addressing the challenges of urbanization requires radical improvements
rather than incremental changes, especially in communication and transportation systems (Gupta, 2019).
The advancements in IoT have garnered significant attention from researchers and developers globally, aiming to lever-
age the technology for societal benefits (Mishra et al, 2017). However, achieving these improvements requires addressing the
current technical challenges and shortcomings. There are several key issues IoT developers must consider to create a better
Architecture Engineering and Science 184 | Tushar Bokhad, et al.
model. It also discusses important IoT application areas where ongoing work is being done. Additionally, the role of big data
analytics is emphasized, as it can provide accurate insights essential for developing an enhanced IoT system (Ibraigheeth,
2023). This study highlights significant differences in the construction and implementation of Smart Cities (SCs) between
developed and developing countries. SCs in high-income countries tend to focus more on technological advancements, cre-
ating numerous smart projects and e-participation tools to engage citizens in public decisions (Manan and Jaydev, 2016). In
contrast, SCs in developing countries often emphasize urban planning, economic growth, and quality of life improvements.
Technological tools in developed SCs are primarily used for communication rather than active citizen participation, with
social media being more prevalent than e-participation platforms (Fawzi et al., 2014). The study underscores the necessity
of tailored assessment metrics that consider the unique contexts and priorities of SCs in different economic settings. Future
research should investigate the impact of these technological tools on governance and democracy further, exploring citizen
engagement and the devolution of power in urban local bodies. Additionally, international collaboration and knowledge
sharing are essential to bridge the gap between SCs in developed and developing countries, ensuring equitable growth and
sustainability in urban development (Gaur et al., 2015).
References
[1] Abbas, M. Z. and Syed, S. (2022) IoT in smart communities, technologies and applications. Available at: https://ir.li-
brary.louisville.edu/etd/4029.
[2] Al-Ghabra, N. (2022) ‘TOWARD SUSTAINABLE SMART CITIES: CONCEPTS & CHALLENGES’, Architecture
and Planning Journal, 28(2). Available at: https://doi.org/10.54729/fvgh9456.
[3] Bandyopadhyay, S. (2022) Urbanization and Regional Sustainability in South Asia Socio-economic Drivers, Environ-
mental Pressures and Policy Responses Contemporary South Asian Studies. Available at: http://www.springer.com/
series/15344.
[4] Bangre, A., Surwade, R. and Kamal Arif M. (2023) ‘Prospects of Double Glazed Windows in Buildings: Energy Con-
servation and Environmental Sustainability’, American Journal of Civil Engineering and Architecture, 11(3), pp. 64–
69. Available at: https://doi.org/10.12691/ajcea-11-3-1.
[5] Bholey, M. (2017) ‘Smart Cities and Sustainable Urbanism: A Study From Policy and Design Perspective’, Scholedge
International Journal of Multidisciplinary & Allied Studies, 4(6), pp. 36. Available at: https://doi.org/10.19085/journal.
sijmas040601.
[6] Fawzi, R. (2014) Sustainability assessment methods of urban design: A review. Available at: https://www.researchgate.
net/publication/277570536.
[7] Garg R., Pankaj, Kumar A., Warsi T. R., Kamal Arif M. (2023). User Experience and Expectations of Streetscape: A
Planning Framework for Urban Streets in India. Civil Engineering and Architecture, 11(3), pp. 1480-1486.
[8] Gaur, A. (2015) ‘Smart city architecture and its applications based on IoT’, in Procedia Computer Science. pp. 1089–
1094. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.procs.2015.05.122.
[9] Gupta, S. (2019) ‘Smart city paradigm in India: Gwalior a case study’, Humanities and Social Sciences Reviews, 7(4),
pp. 341–347. Available at: https://doi.org/10.18510/hssr.2019.7444.
[10] Hayat, P. (2016) ‘Smart cities: A global perspective’, India Quarterly, 72(2), pp. 177–191. Available at: https://doi.
org/10.1177/0974928416637930.
[11] Ibraigheeth, M. (2023) The Role of Dependability in IOT Systems, Journal of Intelligent Systems and Applied Data
Science. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377265709.
[12] Jain R., Brar T. S., Kamal Arif M., (2022) Environmental Impact and Mitigation Benefits of Urban Heat Island Effect:
A Systematic Review, Architecture Engineering and Science, 3(4), pp. 230-237. doi: 10.32629/aes.v3i3.1007
[13] Kamal Arif M., Vasanth V. and Afzal Khan M. (2024). Urban Regeneration of Public Spaces and Pedestrian Streets in
Commercial Area: Case of Chandni Chowk at Old Delhi, India. American Journal of Civil Engineering and Architec-
ture. 12(3), pp. 44-50. doi: 10.12691/ajcea-12-3-1
[14] Manan S., Jaydev Bhavsar, S.J. (2016) Review on Identification of Success Factors for Designing of Smart Cities,
IJSTE-International Journal of Science Technology & Engineering. Available at: www.ijste.org.
[15] Mavropoulos, A. (2021) Institute of Development Management Jaipur, Journal of Development Management and Com-
munication Dr Efstratios Kalogirou Vice Chair Global WTERT Council (GWC, USA) President SYNERGIA (WTERT-
Greece). Available at: www.idm.org.in.
[16] Mehta, S. (2019) Towards Inclusive and Sustainable Smart Cities: The Case of Ranchi. Available at: https://www.re-
searchgate.net/publication/331802903.
[17] Mishra, A. P., Sen, A. and Kumar, A. (2017) ‘Exploring potentials and challenges in making smart cities in India: A
case study of Allahabad City, Uttar Pradesh’, in Urban Book Series. Springer, pp. 123–142. Available at: https://doi.
Volume 5 Issue 4 | 2024 | 185 Architecture Engineering and Science
org/10.1007/978-3-319-47145-7_8.
[18] Praharaj (2021) ‘A Comprehensive Analysis of the Challenges and Opportunities of the 100 Smart Cities Mission in
India’. Available at: https://doi.org/10.26190/unsworks/21203.
[19] Praharaj, S., Han, J. H. and Hawken, S. (2018) ‘Urban innovation through policy integration: Critical perspectives
from 100 smart cities mission in India’, City, Culture and Society, 12, pp. 35–43. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.
ccs.2017.06.004.
[20] Raghani S., Brar T. S., Surwade R., Kamal Arif M. (2023) ‘Investigating Human Energy Levels in the Interior and
Exterior of a Dome: A Comparative Analysis’, Civil Engineering and Architecture, 11(5). Available at: https://doi.
org/10.13189/cea.2023.110507.
[21] Surwade R., Khas Kanwaljit S., Raghani S., Kamal Arif M. (2023) ‘Exploring the Potential of Model Making as a Tool
for Designing Sustainable Buildings’, Civil Engineering and Architecture, 11(4), pp. 2231–2239. Available at: https://
doi.org/10.13189/cea.2023.110440.
[22] Surwade R., Khas S. Kawaljit, Raghani S., Kamal Arif M. (2023) ‘Model Making as a Creative Skill and Tool for
Teaching-Learning Process in Architecture and Product Design’, Civil Engineering and Architecture, 11(6), pp. 3278–
3284. Available at: https://doi.org/10.13189/cea.2023.110603.
[23] Surwade, R., Khas, K. S. and Bangre, A. (2024) ‘Environmentally Responsible Product Design and Model Making’, Sus-
tainable Manufacturing: An Emergence in Industry 4.0 [Preprint]. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003309123-
7.
... A better place for a toilet can be found at the start of the stretch or near the temple. Drinking water facilities should be proposed at regular intervals [22]. ...
Article
Full-text available
The designs have evolved, and designers are more focused towards attaining streets that are "reconfigurable, safer, and more accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, and tomorrow's self-driving vehicles". The services are beyond the buildings and such advancements provide both accessible and energy-harvesting sources. The dynamic property of the street also has a potential place-making factor. The research paper is to analyze the pattern of development and morphology of the commercial street specifically-the 1.4-kilometre redeveloped street network of Chandni Chowk. Despite having become an urban wasteland, the location continues to draw visitors from all over India and the globe who come to sample the cuisine and experience life in the middle Ages. Such streets focus on the origin of pedestrians and their flow towards the activities. The commercial outlook and functioning of the streets bring in more pedestrian footfall directed towards it. The redevelopment project has changed the pattern and morphology of the place blending with the past to give a new futuristic outlook while staying true to its roots. Chandni Chowk serves as the best example to cater to pedestrians' needs. Such public spaces connect various hot spots in the city and maintain both formal and informal pedestrian flow in a city. This research concludes by investigating the viability of place-making and place-marketing tactics to reproduce the 'old-world' magnificence of Chandni Chowk. The goal is to create a well-balanced approach that combines marketing and place-making concepts, repositioning this area as a tourism hotspot of Delhi's history.
Article
Full-text available
The advances in the Internet of Things (IoT) have contributed to the automation of various industries by enabling devices and systems to effectively connect and collect data remotely over the internet. This progress has led to the creation of an intelligent society where physical things are becoming increasingly innovative and undoubtedly, the IoT systems will continue to impact real life by providing efficient data collection and sharing. The successful implementation of IoT systems relies on their dependability, which is closely tied to several factors such as their reliability, resilience, and security. This paper explores the crucial role of dependability in IoT system, emphasizing challenges such as real-time analysis, resource constrains, connection redundancy, and quick fault recovery. The paper also provides some strategies for overcoming dependability challenges, such as efficient algorithms, edge computing, prioritization of resources, and AI techniques integration. Additionally, the paper presents a case study of an IoT system that faced dependability problems, highlighting the importance of rigorous testing and redundancy in ensuring reliable IoT deployments. As a result of this research, we suggest that by addressing the challenges related to dependability aspects, stakeholders can unlock the full potential of IoT, empowering industries and individuals with transformative, efficient, and reliable technologies. For future work, a frame work for evaluating and enhancing the IoT dependability will be developed. Several factors will be considered in developing this framework, such as reliability, availability, safety, security, resilience, and fault management. The framework will define a quantifiable metrics to measure these factors.
Article
Full-text available
In this paper, the study analyzes the necessity of model-making to comprehend and learn about architectural product design through a systematic literature review. Recent literature is identified from reputed peer-reviewed journals and a systematic appraisal is implemented. Through multitudes of instances mentioned in the reviewed literature, argumentation is carried out and summarized in the sections such as (a) design teaching-learning dimensions, (b) architectural product design, prototype, and manufacturing, and (c) investigation in the domain of design teaching-learning. Developing physical models while studying the fundamentals of architectural product design offers the opportunity to accomplish teaching-learning goals. Although the design was challenging to learn and even more challenging to teach, model-making greatly facilitates the process and offers opportunities for inducing creativity, innovation, and ability of thinking in a complex way, such as design concepts, and shared knowledge acquisition while trying to handle a design task communally learning by doing. The paper concludes with contributions of the literature appraisal on model-making as a creative tool for teaching-learning processes is explored in the context of the architecture and product design.
Article
Full-text available
It has become crucial to live in serene and soothing environments to be healthy and tranquil. Contemplative areas can guide the architecture to a higher spiritual plane which generates a feeling of calmness. It is possible to characterize the present era as turbulent, uncertain, and changeable. Technical breakthroughs and a desire for peaceful settings has to go hand in hand along with rapid urbanization and excessive intensification. Traditional architecture frequently had a specific function in mind when it was designed, and future users, uses, or environmental changes were rarely considered. However, it is now asserted that climate change, shifting demographics, resource depletion, and cost difficulties necessitate building flexibility immediately. It is thought that architecture of the 21 st century needs to be similarly flexible and adaptable for a number of reasons, the most crucial of which being the user's experiences and mental health. Instead of demolishing buildings to create landfills, architecture should be designed to be dismantled, rebuilt, and repurposed to create spaces for reflection which produces peaceful and serene spaces. There are several ways that architecture can create these places. The experiment used in the current study was based on comprehensive literature surveys and experiments in the disciplines of form and architecture along with its impact on human mental status. This study focuses on the investigation of effects of the physical environment and dome on the energy levels of humans. By offering a place where people are free to ponder or meditate and feel the present moment, different environments can be built that help experience more connecting to themselves. Such quiet areas can be helpful for those who are stressed or depressed.
Article
Full-text available
Model-making plays an important role in architectural design projects. Models can depict how a building fits into its surroundings without revealing every detail, or they might highlight a particular feature of the structure. Model making is important to better understand how the architectural design adopts the energy efficiency of a structure. Active learning through the Modelmaking method has been useful to learners in developing their conceptual design using three modes: a) Observations b) By doing c) Problem-solving. When the beginners start their project, it has been observed that they are unable to understand the three-dimensional form and find it difficult to study climate-responsive architecture / sustainable building design. Physical model making is an extremely versatile tool for the design process, conducting research, and introducing three-dimensional designs. It may assist the process used to explore different forms in Architectural design. It also refers to an educational strategy that uses engaging learning processes tailored to the learners' requirements and interests. Model making is a vast domain, and there are many aspects about how to be understood in relation to its use, presentation, experimentation, testing (prototype), etc. The research underlines how the assumptions and accessibility of a technology education design process may give learners many opportunities to learn about models and modeling.
Article
Full-text available
The emission of carbon dioxide has great influence on the environment and has a very large part to play in global warming issues. In the building and construction industry, CO2 is the largest environmental concern. This has prompted research into developing new building systems and technologies, to mitigate the green house gases, which are depleting the ozone layer. Windows are the most vulnerable part of building envelope where the solar energy directly penetrates into the building and the heat gain and loss occurs at this interface. Double-glazed windows are very effective in keeping inside temperature isolated from outside; thereby, saving electrical and thermal energy. In many studies, it has been found that the double glazed windows are more energy efficient than normal Single glazed windows. It has been observed that Double glazed windows are perfect for Indian weather conditions, especially in North India where there are scorching summers and extreme winters. This paper presents an overview of window glazing techniques to optimize the energy savings in buildings. It also discusses the relationship between R-value and double glazed windows and analyses the benefits of the application of double glazed windows for energy conservation in buildings in particular and environmental sustainability as a whole.
Article
Full-text available
Streets are an integral part of the urban fabric which weave various functions like social space, commercial space, cultural space, as well as a channel of transportation for various categories of vehicles. In Indian scenario, rapid and uncontrolled growth of commercial activities on urban streets has led to traffic congestion, unorganized parking, lack of convenient space for pedestrians and lack of visual and spatial comfort for all users. This research focuses on the study of street scape scenario in India, the expectations of users, identifying general issues related to urban streets and accordingly suggesting strategies for enhanced user experience. The aim of this research is to study the user experience, determine the expectations of citizens and formulate strategies for establishing the sustainable street system which enhances the user experience and keeps the city livable. The present scenario of urban streets is studied through a research survey in order to understand the user experience and their expectations of urban streets. The questionnaire comprising of twelve questions was prepared to collect responses from various age groups. User experience and expectations are compiled and analyzed on the basis of information provided by 454 respondents, and recommendations are made accordingly on the basis of best judgement. A new framework for urban street planning and design of streetscape elements is to be formulated at the city level while considering user experience and expectations. Keywords Streetscape, User Experience, UrbanStreets, Urban Design, Street Lighting, Street Hierarchy, India
Article
Full-text available
The high temperature in city centers and urban areas than their surroundings, known as the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, which causes discomfort to city dwellers in the summer season, is gaining much attention worldwide as the world continues to urbanize. The Urban Heat Island (UHI) is a phenomenon where urban areas are experiencing high temperature than the surrounding rural areas. The current rapid urbanization in India cause of temperature rises, undeniable climatic changes etc. because of it heat island phenomenon occur which call for a need to address the issue of its consequences and awareness. To counterbalance this, various mitigation strategies has been introduced and new technologies are developed which helps in identifying the hot pockets in a city. Due to the seriousness of the problem, extensive research has been done and a lot of literature study of the subject is available. The literature in this domain provides the most up-to-date research methods, concepts, procedures, investigative tools, and mitigation strategies. The aim of this paper is to present state of the art on environmental benefits of UHI mitigation applied at city scale level like benefits of green roof, high albedo material, water body, modification in building envelope and also suggest that future study should concentrate on design and planning characteristics in order to minimize the level of urban heat island and, as a result, live in a better environment.
Article
The world’s urban population is growing enormously, increasing of energy usage, air toxicity, and traffic congestion in urban areas which need a furthermost effective way for solutions. Smart city as a solution is expected to solve the functionality of urban systems. It needs to improve ICT infrastructure as an authoritative, adaptable, accessible, secure, and flexible one, and improve the quality of daily lifetime, refine citizen’s healthiness as well to achieve economic growth and develop the physical infrastructure services to promote sustainable development. This research is a narrative review, kind of methodological approach presented as open research and structured as follows: First section presents the smart city concept by reviewing the definitions, characteristics, and its dimensions. Based on the creation of smart cities, the research aims to identify and investigate the main challenges that smart cities development will face in the coming years by analysing, estimating, and evaluating the available data. It also includes a various assortment of challenges classified under; infrastructure challenges, theoretical, urban design, interdisciplinary, hackers challenges, urban land use, disability of the elderly challenges, the Big Data, technology trap, cultural and democracy challenges, budgetary and cost constraints, and regulations challenges. Besides, it is important to be conscious of security and privacy risks when implementing new systems. One example specifically discussed, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia smart city practices, provides a general overview of the Saudi Vision 2030. It is enlightened by a brief about “the most recent smart city project in Saudi Arabia”, NEOM and illustrates the smart city practices of Makkah, in the light of the six dimensions of the smart city, also studied the city of Amsterdam as it considered one of the first smart cities at the global level. Finally, the research ends with the conclusions and recommendations.