Key Problem Facing the World's Cities in 21st Century

Almost half the world's population now live in urban areas and, as cities grow
even larger, conditions for civil cities are likely to get worse. This continuously
swelling population, if not properly addressed, will lead to several very serious
problems. Three of the most critical key problems are increasing pollution, global
warming, and worsening social conditions.
Firstly, pollution is abundant in cities due to dangerous gases being released into the
atmosphere and toxic effluents being dumped daily into streams and rivers. These cause
significant pollution of air and water. This sorry scenario is the result of billions
of selfish decisions made by millions of uncaring individuals. 

Next, cutting down of trees and forests to make way for agriculture and human
habitation causes destructive floods to occur, animals to be deprived of their habitat and
become extinct, and temperatures to rise. Ironically, the participation and support of
governments and corporations in the name of development is like adding salt to the
wound.
Thirdly, having to leave homes for education and/or work in cities is tearing
apart family relationships. Gone are the traditional family values like filial piety and
closeness of blood relations. Such great increases in the urban population numbers
lead to related problems like insufficient homes, lack of schools and poor health and
sewerage facilities.
Finally, immigration to cities can be likened to fire. If used well, it can spread
warmness, Otherwise, destruction of lives and property would result. There must be
proactive programmes so that the population, like fire, can be harnessed positively.
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