MEGA CITY Meaning and
Definition
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A mega city refers to an urban area with an exceptionally high population density and extensive urbanization. It is characterized by its vast size, both in terms of population and physical expanse. Typically, a mega city is home to millions, if not tens of millions, of residents, making it one of the most populous places on the planet.
The concept of a mega city emerged in the latter half of the 20th century with the unprecedented surge in global urbanization. These urban conglomerates often arise as a result of rapid population growth, migration from rural areas to cities, and economic development. Their immense size is reflected in their substantial infrastructure, numerous high-rise buildings, extensive transportation networks, advanced commerce, and vibrant cultural diversity.
Mega cities serve as centers of economic, political, and cultural power, attracting multitudes of people seeking job opportunities, better living conditions, and access to modern amenities. They are often characterized by their distinctive skyline, bustling streets, and a vibrant mix of various socioeconomic strata.
However, mega cities face a myriad of challenges owing to their enormous size and population density. Issues such as overburdened infrastructure, scarcity of resources, pollution, traffic congestion, housing shortages, and social inequality are some of the pressing problems that mega cities confront on a daily basis.
In summary, a mega city is an urbanized region of colossal scale, often defined by its densely populated areas, extensive development, and the presence of a multitude of economic, cultural, and social activities.
Etymology of MEGA CITY
The word "mega city" is a combination of two components:
1. Mega: The term "mega" is derived from the Greek word "megas", meaning great, large, or big. It is used as a prefix in English to indicate something of an exceptionally large size or scale. In contemporary usage, it commonly refers to a city or urban area with a population exceeding 10 million.
2. City: The word "city" originates from the Latin word "civitas", which means community or citizenship. Over time, it came to represent a large and permanent human settlement, usually characterized by various social, economic, and political institutions.
Therefore, the term "mega city" was created to describe an enormous urban area with a significantly high population. It emphasizes the extensive scale and magnitude of such a city.
