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Why has Jakarta become the most populous city in the world?
Jakarta's population has surged due to rural migration, climate-related displacement, and improved urban data collection. The UN's new methodology revealed previously underestimated populations, highlighting Jakarta's rapid growth compared to Tokyo, which is experiencing a decline due to aging and low birth rates.
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What factors are driving rapid urban growth in Asia?
Asia's urban growth is fueled by rural-to-urban migration, economic opportunities, and climate change pushing people from rural areas to cities. Cities like Dhaka and Jakarta are expanding quickly, with projections indicating they will become some of the largest cities by 2050.
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Which cities are expected to grow the most by 2050?
By 2050, Dhaka is projected to surpass Jakarta as the world's largest city, driven by high birth rates and migration. Other rapidly growing cities include Lagos, Kinshasa, and Manila, all part of the global trend of increasing megacity populations, mostly in Asia and Africa.
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How has the methodology changed to update city population estimates?
The UN's 2025 report used a new, consistent methodology that includes densely populated communities previously excluded. This change revealed that cities like Jakarta are much larger than earlier estimates, emphasizing the importance of accurate data in understanding urban growth.
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What role does climate change play in urban population shifts?
Climate change is a significant factor, causing displacement in vulnerable areas and pushing populations toward cities. Coastal cities like Jakarta face rising sea levels, which contribute to migration and urban expansion in other regions, shaping future city growth patterns.
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What are the implications of increasing megacities worldwide?
The rise of megacities presents challenges such as infrastructure strain, environmental impact, and social inequality. However, it also offers opportunities for economic development and innovation. Managing this growth sustainably is crucial for the future of global urbanization.