ABU DHABI - The Municipal Infrastructure & Assets Sector at Abu Dhabi City Municipality (ADM) has developed and added designs of smart sports and play devices to all municipal projects relating to parks and recreational facilities for this year, at a cost of around AED62 million.

The step has been taken to accelerate the future drive and embed the culture of pioneering and innovation in municipal work as part of the Government Accelerators initiatives for the 5-Year Plan of Smart Cities and Artificial Intelligence (AI) 2018 - 2022.

The plan envisages upgrading the processes, technologies & specifications of AI and smart cities for the infrastructure, and implementing the processes, technologies & specifications developed specifically for Abu Dhabi. It also provides for managing and operating infrastructure elements using the Internet of Things and shaping the future of road assets, parks and infrastructure, besides boosting taking of development and strategic decisions relating to the Emirate. The step stems from Abu Dhabi Vision and conforms to the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031.

The introduction of smart sports and play devices to parks and recreational facilities aims to foster the principles and concepts of sustainability, boost the history and true traditions of the UAE community through smart apps connected to these plays. Sustainability is a key component of Smart cities apps as regards the optimisation of the use of natural resources. The Municipality views sport as a key ingredient that promotes the spirit of social harmony. The smart apps add a new dimension to promoting the cultural & ethical contents of the UAE community.

The smart sports and play devices boost these concepts through innovative sports and play devices that transform kinetic energy into electric energy for multiple uses such as the recharging of mobile phones, lighting, water-cooling, music & national anthems, training children on such activities and environmental & cultural contests about the history of the UAE. These devices can also be programmed to celebrate UAE events such as the national day, public holidays and others.

Accordingly, it encourages people to make extra physical effort and partake in sports practices, which contributes to improving public health and boosts happiness. Adding sports to the daily routines of people promotes a culture of movement and environmental awareness.

© Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2018.