AI against spitting: can a “smart city” educate society?

At the KIT Forum in Bishkek, an unexpected but resonant question was raised from the audience: could the introduction of digital technologies and the development of artificial intelligence rid the capital of widespread spitting on the streets?

The question sparked lively discussion and received a direct response from Zhumamudun Zhumaliev, Director of the Bishkek City Hall's Digital Technology Centre.

«We are preparing for the fact that by 2050, about 70% of the population will live in cities, and Bishkek is no exception. Therefore, we need to start building digital urban management systems, including AI, right now. The law clearly states that spitting and other anti-social behaviour are prohibited. We are developing systems using computer vision — part of artificial intelligence — that will be able to detect such violations and help maintain order», — the speaker noted.

According to Zhumaliyev, the focus should not only be on punishment, but also on shaping a culture.