Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous problems. Identify one or two serious ones and suggest ways that governments and individuals can tackle these problems.

Many countries of the world are currently experiencing problems caused by rapidly growing populations in urban areas, and both governments and individuals have a duty to find ways to overcome these problems. Overpopulation can lead to overcrowding and poor quality housing in many large cities. Poorly heated or damp housing could cause significant health problems, resulting in illness,

such

as bronchitis or pneumonia. Another serious consequence of overcrowding is a rising crime rate as poor living conditions may lead young people

in particular

to take desperate measures and turn to crime or drugs. In terms of solutions, I believe the government should be largely responsible.

Firstly

, it is vital that the state provides essential housing and

healthcare

Suggestion

health care

for all its citizens.

Secondly

, setting up community projects to help foster

more community spirit

Suggestion

a more community spirit

the more community spirit

and help keep young people off the street is a good idea.

For example

, youth clubs or evening classes for teenagers would keep them occupied.

Finally

, more effective policing of inner city areas would

also

be beneficial. Naturally, individuals should

also

try to address these problems. One way is to put pressure on the government to ensure they tackle the problems by,

for instance

, forming action groups to lobby the government and request intervention and adequate funding. They could

also

form Neighbourhood Watch areas to try and help reduce the high levels of crime.

Therefore

, it is clear that the problems caused by overpopulation in urban areas are very serious. Yet if governments and individuals share a collective responsibility,

then

it may well become possible to offer some solutions.