A Comprehensive Big Data Governance Framework for Smart Cities: Leveraging IoT, Scalable Analytics, and Participatory Models for Sustainable Urban Management

Smart cities represent a transformative approach to urban management, leveraging advanced technologies and big data to address challenges such as overcrowded transportation systems, inefficient resource allocation, and environmental degradation. However, the vast and dynamic influx of data generated by smart city infrastructures demands robust governance frameworks to ensure efficiency, security, and equity. This paper examines the critical role of big data governance in enabling sustainable smart city ecosystems, focusing on policy frameworks, data privacy safeguards, and participatory governance models. By analysing existing frameworks and identifying gaps, it proposes an integrated governance model that addresses the ethical, legal, and technical dimensions of managing heterogeneous data sources. Furthermore, the paper highlights technical advancements, such as distributed storage systems and advanced analytics, and evaluates their integration within holistic governance structures. The findings underscore the necessity of scalable and secure solutions for data storage, processing, and sharing, ultimately advancing the transparency and sustainability of smart city initiatives.