Final answer:
The biggest challenge for megacities amid rapid population growth is providing sufficient infrastructure, which is critical for managing congestion, housing, sanitation, and public services. The strain on infrastructure can also lead to environmental issues and socioeconomic disparities.
Explanation:
Urbanization Challenges:
The biggest challenge megacities face due to rapid population growth is providing sufficient infrastructure. Rapid urbanization leads to a need for improvements in transportation, housing, energy, and sanitation facilities. The capacity to expand these critical infrastructures often cannot keep pace with the explosive growth, resulting in traffic congestion, inadequate housing options, and strained public services.
As more people move to cities, they strain the available resources, pushing up the cost of living and contributing to socioeconomic disparities. The lack of infrastructure also leads to environmental challenges such as air and water pollution, a phenomenon that can disproportionately affect the poorer populations in urban areas. Addressing infrastructure gaps is essential for megacities to manage growth efficiently and provide a sustainable living environment for all residents.