The new lab integrates GIS mapping with machine learning. It aims to solve Ulaanbaatar's traffic congestion by 2030. Students from Architecture, CS, and Policy will collaborate on live government projects.
Ulaanbaatar has long struggled with urbanization challenges, from traffic congestion to energy efficiency. Today, Citi University takes a bold step towards solving these issues with the inauguration of the Smart City Urban Planning Lab.
Located in Building B, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art workstations capable of rendering complex 3D models of the city in real-time. This allows researchers to simulate traffic flows, test the impact of new bus routes, and visualize pollution dispersion patterns.
Interdisciplinary Approach
What makes this lab unique is its open-access policy for different departments. "Urban planning isn't just for architects," explains Dr. Bat-Erdene, Dean of Research. "We need computer scientists to build the algorithms, sociologists to understand the human impact, and policy students to draft the regulations."
"We are not just building models; we are building the future of our city."
The lab has already secured its first major contract: a feasibility study for the proposed 'Green Corridor' connecting the western and eastern districts. Students participating in this project will receive course credit and a stipend funded by the grant.
Looking Ahead
The university plans to expand the lab's capabilities next year to include Virtual Reality (VR) walkthroughs, allowing city planners to "walk" through proposed neighborhoods before a single brick is laid.