Final answer:
The main cause of pollution problems in urban areas is the improper management of water resources and poor sanitation. Traffic congestion, overcrowded schools, and local air pollution are also significant challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main cause of pollution problems in urban areas has been the improper management of water resources, including poor drainage and crowded housing with poor ventilation of smoke. Additionally, poor sanitation resulting from open sewers and unregulated waste transportation has contributed to rampant diseases in cities. Traffic congestion, overcrowded schools, and a widening economic gap between the rich and the poor are additional challenges brought about by urbanization. Local air pollution caused by the combustion of fossil fuels in power stations, factories, and motor vehicles is also a major issue in urban areas.