Connectivity and the city

One of our core advocacies in Liveable Cities has been to promote increased connectivity in our cities. Improved internet access and digital inclusion stem from recognizing the profound impact that connectivity has on development and progress. In today’s world, digital access is fundamental—not just for communication but also for education, economic growth, and civic participation. When communities are connected, they gain access to knowledge, markets, and opportunities that were previously out of reach.

Conversely, those without digital access risk falling further behind. We’ve seen how strategic investments in digital infrastructure can transform cities and empower individuals. That understanding drives our passion to push for policies and initiatives that bridge the digital divide, ensuring equitable access for all.

Technology integration enhances service delivery and improves the quality of life in our cities. It enhances city life by improving efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Intelligent infrastructure can reduce congestion and optimize resources, while artificial intelligence-driven public services can streamline services such as waste management, health care, and transportation.

Meanwhile, e-governance platforms can boost transparency of public services. Integrating technology into city services makes a huge difference in how cities operate and how people experience daily life. Online platforms make it easier to access government services from applying for and processing permits to paying bills, saving time, and reducing bureaucracy.

In health care, telemedicine and digital health records improve access to medical services and streamline patient care. Education benefits too, with e-learning platforms expanding opportunities for students. Moreover, public safety is enhanced through smart surveillance and emergency response systems that react faster and more effectively. Even utilities like water and electricity become more reliable with smart grids that monitor usage and closely monitor supply.

One of the key paths to success for better connectivity in cities is to foster genuine collaboration and open dialogue between government agencies and private sector players. Bringing everyone to the table serves to align people around common goals and address challenges together. Public-private partnerships have played a big role, especially in infrastructure projects where the government provided policy support while the private sector brought in investment and technology. Another path to success has been in creating pilot projects that demonstrate real-world benefits, which help build trust and momentum. By showing what is possible, more stakeholders are drawn to get involved.

One “quick win” we should consider is the way we look at how we install connectivity in new buildings and homes. Typically, we treat electricity and water connections as utilities which are automatically provided in new buildings. They are basically ready for you to turn on when you move into a building. We should look at connectivity in the same way, basically as a utility that is built into buildings and houses which can be simply turned on as soon as you open an account with minimum need for additional wiring, installation, or equipment to add. In other words, “connectivity as a utility” similar to your power and water utility connections.

Connectivity is going to shape our future in ways we can’t fully imagine yet. It’s already changing how we work, learn, shop, and interact. As technology keeps evolving, more jobs, services, and even everyday activities will depend on reliable internet access. If we don’t prepare for that now, we risk widening the gap between those who have access and those who don’t. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in digital infrastructure today and ensure that people have the skills to use it. By doing this, we’re not just keeping up with technology—we’re giving people the tools they need to thrive in the future economy. Preparing now means more opportunities and a better quality of life for everyone.

When cities leverage technology across all these areas, they not only become more efficient but also better places to live, work, and thrive.