Association: Smart transport helps reduce urbanization problems

Smart transport systems help reduce urbanization challenges, Gunel Alasgarova, member of the Association of Azerbaijan Construction Materials Manufacturers, said during an event at the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Report informs.

According to Alasgarova, Azerbaijani cities today are designed and built in a more planned, coordinated, and advanced manner compared to previous periods:

"We see this approach both in the application of smart systems and in the construction of sustainable road infrastructure. While earlier projects focused mainly on construction, now greening, ecology, and people's comfort have become priorities. Modern parks, roads, and transport connections already use smarter systems. ASAN service and the intelligent transport management system operating in Azerbaijan are examples. These systems allow real-time road management and more efficient connections between buildings and transport infrastructure."

She added that private sector projects also emphasize eco-friendly approaches, such as green buildings, residential complexes with parks, and solutions like natural lighting, rainwater recycling, and solar panels to reduce energy consumption.

Alasgarova stressed that construction should not be driven solely by financial interests, as this can undermine comfort and hinder the formation of smart, systematic cities: "Excessive density of buildings leads to traffic congestion, difficulties for pedestrians, and lack of bicycle lanes. Currently, changes are being made to improve bicycle paths, pedestrian zones, and public transport accessibility. All these measures aim to reduce the negative impacts of urbanization and prevent existing problems."