Strengthening public safety is the aim of Astana's progression on its Smart City initiative.
Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, is embarking on an ambitious project to transform itself into one of the safest and most technologically advanced cities in the region. With an investment of 53 billion tenge (US$99 million), the city is implementing a Smart City project that aims to enhance residents' safety and comfort, improve the efficiency of transportation and urban services, and strengthen the city's competitiveness.
At the heart of this project lies the consolidation of operational data into a single environment, allowing for the efficient utilization of the government's supercomputer. This unified digital ecosystem will enable real-time data analysis and decision-making through a high-tech Situation Center.
The Smart City project in Astana involves the introduction of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Videor, a company delivering PSIM (Physical Security Information Management) and VideoBrain technologies for the first time in Astana, Kazakhstan, is playing a significant role in this transformation. These systems enable real-time processing of large data volumes, automatic detection of traffic violations, and advanced video analytics.
AI technologies are already being applied for adaptive traffic light control, monitoring road conditions, searching for wanted persons, and early medical diagnostics. The project currently covers Astana, Almaty, Shymkent, and regional centers, with plans to expand to district-level cities.
The Astana Smart City project is planned to be expanded annually, complementing existing security measures. Maksat Koshumbayev, regional director of Presight AI Kazakhstan, emphasized the importance of advanced AI tools for urban management.
Surveys conducted through the Smart City application showed that 85% of residents prioritize child and school safety, 51% seek to reduce road accidents, and 91% support centralized AI-powered video surveillance. The project is also planned to be integrated with the national Safe City system, following the President's directive for nationwide scaling.
The objective is to integrate previously fragmented city systems into a unified digital ecosystem. A new Data Processing Center is under construction to act as a secure hub for the city's digital infrastructure. Over 22,000 cameras are already connected to the Astana Police Operations Management Center, and more than 1,200 hardware and software systems are operational.
On Aug. 26, a platform titled Astana. Smart City Starts Today was held, attended by government officials, IT experts, public figures, residents, and others. The event marked a significant step forward in Astana's journey towards becoming a Smart City, and a potential blueprint for other major cities in Kazakhstan.
With at least 60% of the implementation work involving Kazakhstan IT companies, the project is not only modernizing Astana but also creating local jobs and ensuring technology transfer. The Smart City project in Astana is a testament to the city's commitment to embracing technology for the betterment of its citizens and the city's future.
