MEGA-CITY

REGIONS-
INTEGRATED
SETS OF
CITIES AND
SURROUNDIN
G SUBURBAN
HINTERLANDS

BY – YASHAS S
(2ND SEM MURP)
 INTRODUCTION

 Cities are widely recognized as the key locations for advanced economic activity
in contemporary globalization but recent evidence suggests that a new type of
urban economic formation is emerging at the start of the 21st Century.
 This has been called a polycentric Global Mega–City Region—an extensive and
functionally interconnected cluster of urban centers that is developing around the
world’s major cities.
 This phenomenon is arising in a number of distant locations in parallel with a
major shift in global economic relations as capital moves from the developed to
the less developed world.
 In short, the macro–economic changes that are occurring as nation states world–
wide open up to direct foreign competition and embrace the post–industrial global
economy, are also impacting on a local scale around cities that are gateways for
the new wave of globalization.
 These unprecedented global and local changes present major challenges for the
nation state in two ways.
1. On the one hand, increasing integration and informationalisation of the world
economy is challenging the power and authority of states over long– established
national jurisdictional territories 2
 INTRODUCTION
MEGA CITY REGIONS
 The mega–city region as identified by Peter Hall in South East Asia, is a functionally
interconnected space where research and development, high technology and other
urban functions have spread across a large multi–cluster region.
 Well known examples are the Pearl River and Yangtze River Delta regions of China
where commercial, business and administrative services centered in Guangzhou and
Shanghai respectively, are linked to urban centers across thousands of square
kilometers.
 In the case of polycentric megacity-regions that have grown into conurbations, by
which we mean “cities, large towns, and other urbanized and/or nominally rural areas
which, through population growth and physical expansion, have merged to form a
continuous urban and economically developed area that functions in at least some
respects as integrated urban entities” (Friedmann and Sorensen, 2019, p. 1).5 Such
polycentric regions tend to incorporate even larger labour pools and peri-urban areas
into their orbit
 As it is impossible to draw a precise and meaningful boundary for such areas, and as
without a clearly defined boundary we cannot have accurate population counts, here we
simply define megacities and megacity-regions as urban areas and polycentric
functional urban regions that contain aggregate urban populations of over
approximately 10 million.
IMPORTANCE OF MEGA CITY REGIONS IN GLOBAL
CONTEXT
 Mega city regions are often the financial capitals of their countries, driving national
economies. They attract multinational corporations, provide diverse job opportunities,
and facilitate significant domestic and international trade.
 These areas foster innovation through a concentration of universities, research
institutions, and tech companies. They create ecosystems that support startups and
technological advancements, contributing to global progress in various industries.
 Mega cities are cultural epicenters, influencing global trends in music, fashion, cuisine,
and media. They host international events, festivals, and exhibitions that shape cultural
narratives and promote intercultural exchange.
 High population density leads to vibrant communities and diverse demographics. This
diversity enriches the cultural fabric and creates dynamic social environments. It also
presents challenges and opportunities in urban planning, healthcare, and education.
 Mega cities have extensive transportation and communication networks, making them
key nodes in global logistics and communication. Major airports and seaports facilitate
international travel and trade, while digital infrastructure supports global business
operations.
 Rapid urbanization in mega city regions often leads to issues like traffic congestion, air
and water pollution, and housing shortages. However, these challenges drive
innovative solutions in public transportation, green architecture, and sustainable urban
planning.
 These regions hold significant political clout due to their economic and demographic
weight. They often influence national policies and have a voice in international forums,
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shaping global agendas on issues like climate change, trade, and urban development.
 GROWTH PATTERN OF MEGA CITY REGIONS
1. URBANIZATION TRENDS:
Rapid Population Growth: Mega cities attract people from rural and smaller urban areas
due to perceived opportunities in employment, education, and healthcare. This influx leads
to increased demand for housing and services.
Densification: As space becomes limited in city centers, buildings grow taller and land use
becomes more intense. This results in a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial
spaces in close proximity.
Infrastructure Development: To support growth, there is often significant investment in
transportation networks (like highways and public transit), utilities, and communication
infrastructure, which enhances connectivity and accessibility.
Cultural Integration: The cultural influence of mega cities extends to nearby areas, blending
urban and rural lifestyles. This integration fosters a diverse cultural environment, influencing
local traditions, cuisines, and social dynamics.

2. EXPANSION OF CITY LIMITS

Suburbanization: As city centers become more crowded and expensive, people and
businesses move to the suburbs, leading to the development of residential communities with
their own amenities.
Sprawl: This horizontal growth often extends city boundaries into rural areas, creating vast
metropolitan regions that incorporate multiple municipalities and jurisdictions. It can lead
to challenges like increased traffic and environmental impact.

3. INFLUENCE ON SURROUNDING AREAS

Economic Spillover: Surrounding regions benefit from the economic growth of mega
cities. New businesses and industries emerge, providing jobs and stimulating local
economies.
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 CHARACTERISTICS OF MEGA CITY REGIONS
 High Population Density: Large populations concentrated in urban areas, often
exceeding ten million inhabitants.
 Economic Powerhouses: Significant contributors to national and global economies,
with diverse industries and major financial centers.
 Infrastructure Development: Extensive and complex infrastructure, including
advanced transportation systems, utilities, and communication networks.
 Cultural Diversity: Rich cultural environments with diverse populations, fostering
a blend of traditions, languages, and cuisines.
 Innovation and Technology Hubs: Centers for research, innovation, and
technological development, attracting talent and investment.
 Environmental Challenges: Issues like pollution, waste management, and resource
depletion, driving the need for sustainable solutions.
 Political and Administrative Complexity: Multiple governance layers and
jurisdictions, often requiring coordination among various authorities.
 Global Connectivity: Major hubs for international travel and trade, with extensive
airport and port facilities.
 Real Estate Pressures: High demand for housing and commercial space, leading to
rising property values and often limited affordable housing.
 Social Stratification: Diverse socioeconomic groups, often resulting in significant
disparities in wealth and access to services.
 Healthcare Infrastructure: Advanced medical facilities and services, often serving
as healthcare hubs for broader regions. 5
 SUB-URBAN HINTERLANDS
 Suburban hinterlands are the peripheral zones surrounding a major city or
metropolitan area. They can include suburbs, exurbs (areas beyond
suburbs), and rural areas that are influenced economically and socially by
the nearby urban core.
 Suburban hinterlands are the zones between the urban core and the rural
hinterland, serving as a kind of buffer and transition zone between the
two, are suburbs or suburban spaces. The suburbs are primarily residential
but also have public services like schools and businesses people need to
rely on to go about their daily lives.
CHARACTERISTICS OF SUBURBAN HINTERLANDS
Residential Focus:
 Suburban hinterlands are primarily residential areas with a mix of housing types ranging from single-family
homes to townhouses and occasionally low-rise apartment buildings.
 Housing tends to be more spacious compared to urban areas, often offering larger yards and more affordable
options for families.
Lower Population Density:
 These areas have lower population density compared to the central city, allowing for more open spaces,
parks, and recreational areas.
 The layout is typically less dense with a focus on suburban planning principles that prioritize privacy and a
quieter living environment.
Community Infrastructure:
 Basic amenities such as schools, community centers, shopping malls, and healthcare facilities are present,
although they may not be as numerous or densely concentrated as in urban cores.
 Suburban hinterlands often feature local neighborhood centers or commercial nodes that serve the
surrounding residential population.
Transportation Networks:
 Transportation networks in suburban areas are often more car-dependent, with a focus on highways, arterial
roads, and parking facilities.
 However, some suburban hinterlands may have commuter rail lines or bus services connecting residents to
the central city for work and other activities.
Natural Environment:
 Access to natural surroundings is a common feature, including parks, green spaces, and sometimes
agricultural land or natural reserves.
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 This aspect contributes to a suburban lifestyle that emphasizes outdoor activities and a connection to nature.
 SUB-URBAN HINTERLANDS
DEMOGRAPHIC TRENDS
Population Growth:
 Suburban areas typically experience steady population growth as people
seek larger homes, more affordable housing options, and a quieter living
environment away from urban congestion.
 This growth is often driven by families with children, retirees looking for
peaceful surroundings, and young adults starting households.
Age Distribution:
 Suburban hinterlands tend to have a diverse age distribution, with a higher
proportion of families with school-aged children and older adults
compared to urban areas.
 Young professionals and couples may also choose suburban living for its
affordability and quality of life factors.
Ethnic and Cultural Diversity:
 Increasingly, suburban areas are becoming more ethnically and culturally
diverse as migration patterns and demographic shifts influence residential
choices.
 This diversity contributes to a rich social fabric and varied community
experiences within suburban hinterlands.
ECONOMIC ROLE
Residential Base:
 Many residents of suburban hinterlands commute to jobs in the central city or nearby employment
centers, contributing to a commuter economy.
 The residential population provides a stable consumer base for local businesses, including retail
stores, restaurants, and service providers.
Local Employment Centers:
 Some suburban areas develop their own employment hubs, particularly in sectors like healthcare,
education, and local government services.
 These employment centers offer job opportunities closer to home, reducing commuting distances
for residents.
Retail and Service Economy:
 Retail development in suburban hinterlands caters to the needs of local residents, providing
shopping malls, supermarkets, entertainment venues, and other amenities.
 Service industries such as healthcare providers, banks, and professional services also thrive in
response to the growing residential population.
Property Market Dynamics:
 The housing market in suburban areas can experience fluctuations based on factors such as
proximity to urban amenities, transportation access, and local economic conditions.
 Property values may appreciate as suburban hinterlands develop infrastructure and amenities that
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enhance quality of life and convenience for residents
 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE SUB URBAN AND THE MEGA-
CITIES
Economic Interdependence:
 Commuter Base: Many residents of suburban hinterlands work in the
megacity, contributing to the urban labor force and economy.
 Local Economies: Suburban areas support local businesses and services that
benefit from proximity to the urban center.

Cultural Exchange:
 Influence and Integration: Cultural trends and amenities from the megacity
influence suburban lifestyles, while suburban areas maintain distinct local
identities.

Transportation and Infrastructure:

 Connectivity: Well-developed transportation networks link suburbs to the
city, facilitating the movement of people and goods and reducing travel times.

Urban Planning and Development:

 Coordinated Growth: Planning efforts must balance urban expansion with
the preservation of suburban and rural characteristics, addressing issues like
land use and sustainability.

Environmental Impact:
 Resource Management: Both regions face challenges such as pollution and
resource consumption, necessitating collaborative solutions for environmental
sustainability.
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 CHALLENGES FACED BY MEGA CITY REGIONS
CHALLENGES FACED BY MEGA-CITY REGIONS
 Urban Sprawl: The expansion of cities into suburban hinterlands leads to urban
sprawl, characterized by low-density development, increased reliance on automobiles,
and loss of natural habitats. Managing urban growth to prevent sprawl is a critical
issue.
 Infrastructure Strain: Rapid population growth and economic activities put pressure
on existing infrastructure, leading to congestion, pollution, and deteriorating public
services. Upgrading and expanding infrastructure is essential to meet the demands of a
growing population.
 Social Inequality: Mega-city regions often exhibit stark social inequalities, with
affluent areas coexisting alongside marginalized communities facing inadequate
housing, education, and healthcare. Addressing these disparities is crucial for social
cohesion and stability.
 Environmental Sustainability: Ensuring environmental sustainability is a critical
challenge, as MCRs contribute significantly to carbon emissions, resource
consumption, and waste generation. Implementing sustainable practices and reducing
environmental footprints are imperative.
 Governance Complexity: The governance of MCRs involves multiple jurisdictions
and stakeholders, requiring coordinated efforts to address regional issues effectively.
Collaborative governance frameworks are needed to manage the complex
interdependencies within MCRs.
IMPLICATIONS FOR URBAN PLANNING
 Addressing the challenges of mega-city regions requires comprehensive and innovative
urban planning approaches:
 Integrated Regional Planning: Developing integrated plans that consider the entire
region, including the core city and its suburbs, to ensure balanced development and
efficient resource use. Regional planning should promote connectivity and
coordination among various urban centers.
 Sustainable Infrastructure: Investing in sustainable infrastructure, such as public
transportation, renewable energy, and green spaces, to enhance livability and reduce
environmental impacts. Green infrastructure can mitigate the effects of urbanization on
the environment
 Affordable Housing: Implementing policies to increase the supply of affordable
housing and prevent displacement of low-income residents. Mixed-use developments
and inclusionary zoning can help create more inclusive communities.
 Inclusive Development: Promoting inclusive development that addresses social
inequalities and provides opportunities for all residents to benefit from economic
growth. Social programs and equitable access to services are essential components of
inclusive development.
 Collaborative Governance: Establishing collaborative governance frameworks that
involve local governments, businesses, and communities in decision-making processes.
Regional governance bodies can facilitate coordination and joint efforts to tackle
common challenges.
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 CASE STUDIES
MAPS DEPICTING THE URBAN SPRAWL
TOKYO-YOKOHAMA REGION, JAPAN
 The Tokyo-Yokohama region, also known as the Greater Tokyo Area, is one of the largest and
most dynamic MCRs globally. It encompasses Tokyo, Yokohama, and several other cities,
forming an urban conglomeration with a population exceeding 37 million people. This region
is Japan's economic and cultural heart, hosting numerous multinational corporations, financial
institutions, and cultural landmarks.
 There are three other major cities within the metropolitan area. Yokohama, about 20 miles
southwest of Tokyo, is the second largest city in Japan. The industrial city of Kawasaki lies
between Tokyo and Yokohama. Both Yokohama and Kawasaki are in Kanagawa
prefecture. Chiba, in Chiba prefecture east of Tokyo on the northeast coast of the bay, is also
heavily industrialized

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CASE STUDIES
KEY ASPECTS
DEMOGRAPHIC DETAILS
 The 23 wards of Tokyo are dense, but there are much more dense places. Soon after
leaving the core area, one enters areas of smaller apartment buildings, and then in the
suburbs begin the single-family dwellings. In the farther reaches of Saitama and Chiba,
single-family dwellings predominate. Houses are on very small lots, generally, and
residential streets are often no more than one lane, with little space for parking.
 Public transport is so effective in Tokyo that it carries 57 percent of all travel in the
metropolitan area The core of Tokyo also has wide arterial streets, though the high
population density and heavy truck traffic challenge them well beyond their capability.
Because there is so little freight rail in Japan, virtually all land commerce is by truck.
Traffic is generally worse than anywhere in the United States, including Los Angeles.
 Tokyo has a less than adequate system of urban motorways, though is working hard to
make up for the deficit. Parts of the new National Route 16 ring road are open, and
eventually this road will provide a grade separated link from Chiba, through Saitama,
Tokyo prefecture and then to Kanagawa.
 A dense mesh of suburban rail lines serves the entire area, and operates at a profit. So
much for the tale that all public transport is unprofitable. In Tokyo (and Osaka and
Nagoya), virtually the opposite is true. Even the publicly operated buses and metros
come close to earning a profit, on operations and capital. Here, 10 major companies
provide suburban rail service --- with this part of the public transport system alone
carrying more annual riders than in the entire United States.
 Like virtually all of the high-income world’s largest urban areas, all growth in the
Tokyo-Yokohama area has been suburban for decades. The 23 wards of Tokyo reached
their population peak in 1965. Since that time, the 23 wards have lost more than
750,000 people, while the suburbs and exurbs have gained 14.3 million 11
 CASE STUDIES
THE NEW YORK METROPOLITAN AREA, USA
 The vast metropolitan area includes New York City, the nation's most populous
city, Long Island, the mid- and lower-Hudson Valley in New York state, 14 counties and
eleven of the largest cities in New Jersey, and six of the seven largest cities
in Connecticut. The phrase Tri-State area is usually used to refer to New York, New
Jersey, and Connecticut, although an increasing number of people who work in New
York City commute from Pennsylvania, particularly from the Lehigh Valley, Bucks
County, and Poconos regions in eastern Pennsylvania, making the metropolitan area span
four states. The New York metropolitan area is the geographic and demographic hub of
the larger Northeast megalopolis.
 The New York metropolitan area is the most populous metropolitan statistical area in the
United States with 20.1 million residents, or slightly over 6% of the nation's total
population, as of 2020. The combined statistical area includes 23.6 million residents as
of 2020. It is one of the largest urban agglomerations in the world. The New York
metropolitan area continues to be the premier gateway for legal immigration to the
United States, having the largest foreign-born population of any metropolitan region in
the world. The metropolitan statistical area covers 6,720 sq mi (17,405 km2) while the
combined statistical area is 13,318 sq mi (34,493 km2), encompassing an ethnically and
geographically diverse region. The New York metropolitan area's population is larger
than that of the state of New York, and the metropolitan airspace accommodated over
130 million passengers in 2016.
 As of 2022, the New York metropolitan area is the largest metropolitan economy in the
world, with a gross metropolitan product of over US$2.5 trillion. Greater New York is
the hub of multiple industries, including finance, health care, pharmaceuticals,
and scientific output in life sciences, international trade, publishing, real estate, 12
 CASE STUDIES

THE PEARL RIVER DELTA, CHINA

 The Pearl River Delta Mega city-Region is the low-lying area surrounding the Pearl
River estuary, where the Pearl River flows into the South China Sea. Referred to as
the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area in official documents, the region is
one of the most densely populated and urbanized regions in the world, and is considered
a megacity by numerous scholars. It is currently the wealthiest region in Southern China and
one of the wealthiest regions in China along with the Yangtze River Delta in Eastern
China and Jingjinji in Northern China. Most of the region is part of the Pearl River Delta
Economic Zone, which is a special economic zone of China.
 The region is a megalopolis, and is at the southern end of a larger megalopolis running along
the southern coast of China, which include metropolises such as Hong
Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Macao. The nine largest cities of the PRD had a combined
population of 86 million in 2022, the PRD has become the largest urban area in the world in
both size and population. The region's traditional language is Cantonese; in the late 20th
century and the 21st century, due to the high inflow of migrant workers coming from other
regions, Mandarin has gradually become a lingua franca.
 The west side of this region, along with Chaoshan, was also the source of much Chinese
emigration from the 19th to the mid 20th centuries, including to the Western world, where
they formed many Chinatowns. Today, much of the Chinese diaspora in
the US, Canada, Australia, Latin America, and much of Southeast Asia traces their ancestry
to the west side of this region
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THANK YOU!