Evaluation of smart urban growth indicators using ELEKTRE technique (Case study: regions of Kerman city)

Due to rapid expansion of cities, most countries are faced with numerous problems. In many urban areas, not only socioeconomic and environmental issues, but also urban development policies have been affected by this phenomenon. Although population growth is the primary cause of the rapid expansion of cities, unreasonable dispersion of population is the phenomenon that leaves adverse effects on natural environment and cultural communities. Many attempts are made to eliminate the negative effects of the widespread expansion of cities, one of which is “smart growth” which can be considered as a strategy for urban sustainability that might result in sustainable development. In fact, smart growth strategy attempts to align expansions towards sustainability. This study aimed to assess smart urban growth indicators in order to prioritize urban areas. The research method is descriptive and analytical using Multiple Attribute Decision Making (ELEKTRE) technique. The results show that the region 2 of Kerman city ranks first in terms of smart city indices with 3 wins and 1 loss. Region 1, with 2 wins and 2 losses, ranks second and region 3, with 1 win and 3 losses, ranks third. Finally, region 4 ranks fourth with no wins and 4 losses. Available data shows apparent inequalities among urban areas of Kerman. Development programs should be devised and implemented based on the potentials of each area to improve the conditions of less developed regions.