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Below is a photograph of a shanty town in Manila in the Philippines - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 2 - 2007
Question 2
Below is a photograph of a shanty town in Manila in the Philippines. Explain two reasons why shanty towns such as this develop near cities in the Developing World.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Below is a photograph of a shanty town in Manila in the Philippines - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 2 - 2007
Step 1
Reason 1: Rural-Urban Migration
Answer
One significant reason shanty towns develop near cities is due to rural-urban migration. Many individuals from rural areas migrate to urban centers in search of better economic opportunities and improved living conditions.
Once they arrive, however, they often find themselves unable to secure formal housing due to the high costs of living or lack of affordable housing options. Consequently, they resort to building informal settlements or shanty towns as they seek to establish themselves in the city.
Step 2
Reason 2: Lack of Affordable Housing
Answer
Another reason for the emergence of shanty towns is the lack of affordable housing within urban areas. Rapid urbanization often leads to a housing crisis where demand outpaces supply.
In many developing countries, governments may not provide adequate infrastructure or affordable housing solutions, leading low-income families to construct makeshift homes. These shanty towns proliferate as a result of the inadequate response to the housing needs of an expanding urban population.