Describe and explain at least 3 challenges that arose because of urbanization.

Question

At the turn of the century, cities became...

Answer 1

1) Overcrowding and lack of affordable housing: Rapid urbanization led to a surge in population in cities, causing overcrowding and a shortage of affordable housing. As more people migrated to cities in search of better job opportunities and improved living standards, the demand for housing outpaced the supply. This resulted in skyrocketing housing prices, making it challenging for lower-income individuals and families to find suitable and affordable accommodations.

2) Strain on infrastructure and services: The sudden increase in population due to urbanization puts immense pressure on existing infrastructure and services. Transportation systems, such as roads and public transportation networks, often struggle to accommodate the growing number of commuters, leading to increased congestion and longer commuting times. Similarly, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and public services like sanitation and waste management face challenges in meeting the needs of a rapidly expanding population.

3) Environmental degradation: Urbanization generally leads to the conversion of natural areas into built environments, resulting in environmental degradation. The demand for housing, commercial spaces, and infrastructure leads to deforestation, loss of natural habitats, and increased pollution. The increased concentration of vehicles, industries, and population in urban areas contributes to air and water pollution, as well as the destruction of ecosystems. Additionally, inadequate waste management systems in urban areas can result in the improper disposal of waste, causing further environmental problems.

Overall, urbanization presents challenges related to housing affordability, strain on infrastructure and services, and environmental degradation. These issues require careful planning and management to ensure sustainable urban development and improve the quality of life for urban residents.