HONG KONG, Nov. 25, 2024 – The future of transportation was on display at the Hong Kong ICT Awards 2024, which concluded with a grand ceremony on November 22. Chaired by the Digital Policy Office and organized by GS1 Hong Kong, the event recognized pioneering advancements in smart mobility across three crucial categories: Smart Tourism, Smart Logistics, and Smart Transport.

This year saw the introduction of the new "Best Use of AI" award, designed to spotlight exceptional projects utilizing artificial intelligence to enhance mobility solutions. The judging panel comprised industry experts who evaluated numerous submissions, ultimately conferring Gold, Silver, Bronze Awards, and Certificates of Merit to select contestants.

The prestigious “Smart Mobility Grand Award” was claimed by an innovative project titled “Public Transport Ridership Simulation and Railway Planning - MTR to Keep Cities Moving.” This collaboration between MTR Corporation and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology not only snagged the Grand Award but also took home both the Gold Award in Smart Transport and the inaugural Best Use of AI Award.

The award-winning project employs a comprehensive dynamic simulation model featuring a digital twin technology that visually represents crowd distribution. This allows for effective station and traffic management, driving a systematic approach to railway planning. The judges highlighted its exceptional ability to blend open data with MTR’s passenger data to refine simulation models. This cutting-edge approach not only leads to more precise forecasts of passenger behavior but also integrates automatic updates that allow providers to adapt quickly to fluctuating passenger needs and unexpected disruptions.

With 2024 marking a significant year for smart mobility initiatives in Hong Kong, the awards ceremony has underscored the transformative potential of technology in shaping the future of urban transport. As global cities grapple with growing populations and increasing mobility demands, innovations showcased at this event could serve as blueprints for sustainable urban transport solutions around the world.

This year's awards not only celebrate technological strides but also reinforce Hong Kong's commitment to intelligent transport systems, promising a more efficient, responsive, and user-oriented public transport experience.