Summary
Urbanisation creates both opportunities and challenges, requiring cities to balance economic growth with sustainable planning to meet population needs while minimizing environmental impacts.
- Urbanisation — the process of cities growing as more people move from rural to urban areas.
Example: Migration to cities for better job opportunities. - Urban Sprawl — the expansion of cities into surrounding rural areas.
Example: Development of suburbs on the outskirts of a city. - Informal Settlements — unplanned housing areas often lacking basic services.
Example: Slums or shanty towns on city fringes. - Infrastructure Development — building essential services and facilities like roads and utilities.
Example: Construction of new metro systems in a growing city. - Rural-Urban Fringe — the area where the city meets the countryside.
Example: Mixed land use with farms and residential areas.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Urbanisation: The increase in the proportion of people living in urban areas compared to rural areas.
- Urban Sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas.
- Informal Settlements: Areas where housing is not legally recognized and lacks basic services.
Common Confusions
- Confusing urban sprawl with urbanisation itself.
- Assuming all urban growth is beneficial without considering challenges.
Typical Exam Questions
- What are two impacts of urban sprawl on the rural-urban fringe? Loss of agricultural land and increased commuting distances.
- How does rapid urban growth create challenges for city authorities? It puts pressure on services and leads to housing shortages.
- Why does rapid urban growth lead to informal settlements? Due to a shortage of affordable housing and high land prices.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the balance between urban opportunities and challenges.
- Ability to explain the impacts of urban sprawl on the environment and society.
- Knowledge of how rapid urban growth affects infrastructure and services.