Title: Assessing Urbanization Levels Using GeoData: Implications for Kazakhstan Regional Development Planning
Abstract: In this study that utilized satellite data and official statistics, an analysis of the level of urbanization in the Turkestan region was undertaken. The results of this investigation unveiled a surprising revelation regarding the region's urban landscape. Among the seven cities examined, three, to be exact, did not meet the criteria as urban centers. We challenge the assumption that the Turkestan region is highly urbanized and sheds light on a different perspective on its development.The revelation that a considerable portion of the region does not qualify as functional urban areas prompts a reevaluation of our understanding of urbanization trends in Turkestan. We highlight the need to address the complexities of urban development by using available open data.The study expands the application of the methods previously used in similar research, and the results show that the actual level of urbanization in the region is less than the official figure of 56.7%. It was found to be only 36.9%. Such a significant difference between the state-approved data and the measured level of urbanization raises questions about the accuracy of the data and the methodologies used to determine urbanization.The analysis of satellite data and official statistics in the Turkestan region has revealed discrepancies in the level of urbanization, indicating a need for a more accurate assessment methodology. These findings highlight the importance of employing reliable data and appropriate methodologies to ensure effective planning and development in urban areas.There is a chance to update urban policies in the region using an open data approach. Integrating reliable data and appropriate methodologies will lead to more informed decision-making processes and better allocation of resources, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of the communities in the Turkestan region.The scientific novelty lies in utilizing satellite data and official statistics to analyze the level of urbanization to make better decisions.
Keywords: territorial planning;degree of urbanization;urbanization;Kazakhstan;regional development
Review score: High
Review comment: This study presents a critical examination of urbanization levels in the Turkestan region through the innovative use of satellite data and official statistics, challenging prevailing perceptions of the area's urban development. Surprisingly, the investigation reveals that a significant part of the region—specifically, three out of seven cities analyzed—does not fulfill the criteria to be classified as urban centers. This finding contradicts the commonly held belief of high urbanization in Turkestan, offering a fresh perspective on its developmental status.

The discrepancy between the expected and actual levels of urbanization, with the official figure at 56.7% but found to be only 36.9%, underscores a substantial gap in the data and methodologies previously employed to assess urban growth. This divergence prompts a necessary recalibration of our understanding of urbanization trends in the region and highlights the pivotal role of accurate data and methodologies in urban planning and development.

By expanding the application of methods traditionally used in similar research, this study not only refutes the assumed high urbanization rate in Turkestan but also underscores the potential of open data to refine our grasp of urban dynamics. The significant variance between official and measured urbanization levels raises critical questions about the reliability of existing data and the effectiveness of current urban policy-making practices.

Furthermore, the findings advocate for a revision of urban policies in Turkestan, suggesting that an open data approach could facilitate more informed decision-making, efficient resource allocation, and ultimately enhance community well-being. This study's scientific novelty lies in its methodological approach, leveraging satellite data and official statistics to paint a more accurate picture of urbanization, thereby enabling better-informed urban policy and planning decisions.