Many countries today are experiencing high levels of migration from rural areas to cities. What are the causes of this trend, and what effects does it have on the existing city dwellers?
The exodus of ruralites in the urban areas has been a historical event , but of late this has been becoming more and more common in almost all corners of the globe. This can be attributed to several factors; however , this is impacting urbanites in various ways.
The most prominent of the reasons that is fuelling the current relocation from regional areas to the cities is the rising difference in the quality of life offered in these two locations. There is a conspicuous absence of even the basic amenities , required to afford a decent living , in the villages such as employment opportunities, education and health to name a few. This incites the rural population to shift to the urban centres in search of greener pastures.
This influx of hordes of migrants into the metropolitan areas is , nevertheless, is proving to be a recipe for disaster for those dwelling in these areas, who now have to compete with the new entrants for jobs, accommodation, education, and so on. Various studies have shown that while the cost of living is spiraling out of control , the salaries and earnings are registering a sharp decline, especially in unskilled and semi-skilled occupations. Such an evolution can have unwarranted consequences.
The struggles do not end at that, the inhabitants of urbanised locations are forced to embrace a life of chaos. The rising crowds within confined municipalities are exacerbating the problem of congestion on the roads , in the public places and formerly rarely visited green areas like parks, consequently, robbing the metros of their charm and allure.
To summarize, this movement is driven by a desire for a better life, and the impact is felt in the form of hardships for the city residents. Unless disparities are mitigated, this trend shall prosper.
