Urban Growth – Developing World City Problems can develop from the growth and expansion of urban centres - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2016

1. Overcrowding: Growing population has led to significant overcrowding.
2. Strain on infrastructure: Basic services like water, electricity, and waste management are overstretched.
3. Unemployment: Increased migration into the city has resulted in a high rate of unemployment.
4. Pollution: Rapid urbanization contributes to air and water pollution.
5. Housing shortages: There is a severe lack of affordable housing, leading to slums.

The problems stemming from urban growth in Mumbai illustrate the significant challenges many developing world cities face.

Overcrowding in Mumbai has reached critical levels, straining existing services and infrastructure. This is compounded by pollution, as the increased vehicular emissions and industrial activity deteriorate air quality. In addition, unemployment becomes a pressing issue as many rural inhabitants migrate to the city in search of better opportunities, only to find limited job availability.

Furthermore, inadequate housing exacerbates the situation, leading to the growth of slum areas where basic sanitation and living conditions are substandard. Consequently, urban growth presents multifaceted challenges that require comprehensive planning and management strategies to ensure sustainable development.

Addressing these problems is critical in ensuring a livable environment as urban populations continue to expand.