Rankings intended to raise awareness and spur innovation
Phuket has been ranked as the top province-based smart city, while the Wang Chan Valley in Rayong province was named the leading city-based smart area in the country, according to the Thailand Smart City Competitiveness Index 2023.
The index assessed 30 cities in 23 provinces to raise awareness among leaders and residents about the progress, strengths and weaknesses of smart city development, according to the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa).
The initiative aims to inspire the development of smart cities, said Depa president Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin.
For city-based smart areas, the top three in competitiveness for 2023 were the Wang Chan Valley in Rayong (83.6%), Samyan Smart City in Bangkok (79%) and Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem in Bangkok (74.6%).
For province-based smart areas, the top three were Phuket (83.6%), Chachoengsao (76.8%) and Khon Kaen (53.8%).
The index is divided into city- and province-based rankings, using data and performance reports from city developers.
The index evaluated five components: vision and goals, physical and digital infrastructure development, data and security systems, seven aspects of smart city services, and sustainable investment and management strategies.
According to Depa, the report intends to raise awareness about progress and challenges, inspire further development and promote positive competition among smart cities by encouraging them to present better plans and practices to enhance their local and international reputation, while ensuring sustainable development.
Mr Nuttapon said thye department's Thailand Smart City Office is responsible for creating master plans, action plans and driving smart city development in line with the direction of national development.
He said the smart city development master plan 1 (2024-27) aims to develop 105 smart cities in 77 provinces by 2027, leading to direct and indirect investments of 200 billion baht.
Depa is in the process of proposing master plan 2 to the national smart city development board, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): Komsan Tortermvasana
Quelle/Source: Bangkok Post, 21.06.2024
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