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Discuss the problems that can arise from the growth of cities in the developing world. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 12C - 2019
Question 12C
Discuss the problems that can arise from the growth of cities in the developing world.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss the problems that can arise from the growth of cities in the developing world. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 12C - 2019
Step 1
Identify Problems from Urban Growth
Answer
The growth of cities in the developing world often leads to several significant problems, including:
- Overpopulation: Cities become overcrowded due to migration from rural areas, leading to increased pressure on housing and services.
- Infrastructure Strain: Rapid urbanization can outpace the development of essential infrastructure such as roads, water supply, and sanitation, which can result in inadequate services for residents.
- Environmental Degradation: Urban expansion can lead to loss of green spaces, polluted waterways, and increased air pollution, severely impacting local ecosystems.
- Informal Settlements: Many migrants settle in slums or informal housing lacking basic services, leading to health risks and social issues.
- Traffic Congestion: Increased population density often results in severe traffic jams, reducing mobility and increasing pollution.
- Public Health Issues: Crowded living conditions can facilitate the spread of diseases, while lack of sanitation and clean water can exacerbate health problems.
- Social Inequality: The wealth gap tends to widen in rapidly urbanizing areas, creating social tensions and increasing crime rates.
- Unemployment: Job creation often lags behind the influx of people into cities, leading to high unemployment rates and underemployment.
Step 2
Discuss the Problems
Answer
In discussing the problems arising from urban growth, it is essential to provide detailed insights into each of the identified issues.
1. Overpopulation
As cities become overpopulated, the demand for housing and essential services escalates. This can lead to the emergence of slums where living conditions are often dire.
2. Infrastructure Strain
With the rapid influx of people, existing infrastructure may not suffice, leading to traffic jams, waste management crises, and overloaded public transport systems.
3. Environmental Degradation
Urban sprawl often leads to environmental issues, including deforestation for construction and increased carbon emissions, which pose long-term threats to urban living conditions.
4. Public Health Challenges
Health infrastructure frequently struggles to cope with the demands placed upon it by a growing urban population. Diseases can spread rapidly in overcrowded and unhygienic conditions, leading to public health crises.
5. Social Inequality
The stark contrast between affluent areas and impoverished neighborhoods increases social tensions, which can result in crime spikes and civil unrest. Furthermore, with limited job opportunities, many young people may become disillusioned, exacerbating these issues.
These interconnected issues highlight the complexity and challenges associated with urban growth in the developing world.