Beyond the Tech: Chongqing’s Vision for People-Centered Smart Cities

Chongqing, China – While ‘smart city’ has become tech industry buzzword, often conjuring images of gleaming sensors and automated systems, a different vision took center stage at the 2025 World Cities Day China Observance held in Chongqing. The event, the first of its kind hosted in China’s central and western regions, highlighted a shift towards people-centered smart cities – a concept where technological advancement is deliberately harnessed to improve the lives of citizens, rather than driving innovation for its own sake.

Hosted in the sprawling municipality of Chongqing, a megacity of over 32 million people, the observance drew praise from UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach, who lauded the city’s progress in leveraging digital technology to address pressing urban challenges. “Chongqing’s experience offers valuable lessons for megacities worldwide,” Rossbach stated, adding that its focus aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda.

Beyond Coastal Innovation: A Western Expansion

For years, China’s smart city initiatives have been largely concentrated in its wealthier coastal regions. The decision to hold the World Cities Day event in Chongqing signals a strategic shift – a commitment to extending sustainable urban development inland. Chongqing’s position as a key transportation hub and gateway to western China makes it an ideal testbed for innovative solutions that can be replicated throughout the region.

“There’s a clear intent here to move beyond simply showcasing technological prowess,” explains one urban planning expert familiar with the event. “The focus is on practical applications – improving public services, enhancing infrastructure, and creating a more livable environment for residents.”

The ‘People-Centered’ Approach: A Paradigm Shift?

The concept of “people-centered” smart cities isn’t merely a marketing slogan. It represents a deliberate move away from technology-driven solutions towards a more holistic approach. As Kazuko Ishigaki, Regional Director of UN-Habitat ROAP, emphasized during the event, “Technology is only a tool. A smart city cannot be smart without people.”

This approach manifests in several key areas in Chongqing. The city has invested heavily in digital infrastructure to improve public transportation, optimize traffic flow, and enhance emergency response times. However, these advancements are coupled with initiatives designed to promote citizen engagement and ensure equitable access to services. For example, a new digital platform allows residents to report issues, provide feedback, and participate in urban planning decisions.

“They’re trying to build a system where technology empowers citizens, rather than simply controlling them,” says one local resident involved in the platform’s development. “It’s about creating a two-way dialogue, where the city listens to the needs of its residents and responds accordingly.”

Addressing Urban Challenges: Beyond the Hype

Chongqing, like many rapidly growing megacities, faces significant urban challenges. Population density, pollution, traffic congestion, and access to essential services are all pressing concerns. The city's smart city initiatives aim to address these challenges through data-driven solutions and innovative technologies.

One key area of focus is environmental sustainability. Chongqing has implemented a comprehensive air quality monitoring system that provides real-time data on pollution levels. This data is used to inform policy decisions and guide efforts to reduce emissions. The city is also investing in green infrastructure, such as parks and green spaces, to improve air quality and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Another challenge is traffic congestion. Chongqing has implemented a smart traffic management system that uses real-time data to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion. The system also provides commuters with real-time information on traffic conditions, allowing them to make informed decisions about their commutes.

However, these technological solutions are not without their challenges. Concerns have been raised about data privacy, cybersecurity, and the potential for digital exclusion. Experts emphasize the need for robust data governance frameworks and policies to protect citizens' privacy and ensure equitable access to technology.

“It’s crucial to remember that technology is not a panacea,” says one cybersecurity expert. “It’s important to address the potential risks and challenges associated with smart city technologies, and to ensure that these technologies are used responsibly and ethically.”

A Model for the Future?

The 2025 World Cities Day event in Chongqing showcased a vision for smart cities that prioritizes people, sustainability, and equitable access. While challenges remain, the city’s initiatives demonstrate the potential for technology to improve the lives of citizens and create more livable, sustainable urban environments.

Whether Chongqing can serve as a model for other cities remains to be seen. However, its emphasis on people-centered solutions and its commitment to sustainable development offer valuable lessons for cities around the world. “They’re moving beyond the hype and focusing on practical applications that can make a real difference in people’s lives,” observes one urban planning consultant. “That’s what truly makes a city ‘smart.’”

As China continues to urbanize, the experiences of cities like Chongqing will be crucial in shaping the future of sustainable urban development – not just within China, but globally. The shift towards a more people-centered approach to smart cities may well be the most important innovation of all.