What is a Megacity?

The Dark Red Symbolises Megacities

A megacity is a city that has a population of over 10 million people. The majority of megacities are in Asia. The largest of these are:
1. Tokyo, Japan (37,126,000)
2. Jakarta, Indonesia (26,063,000)
3. Seoul, South Korea (22,547,000)
Megacities are usually overpopulated, and have traffic congestion and major pollution. They have become more common over time as more and more people are moving to urban environments for better technology and work. Megacities have better infrastructure and services, but as the population increases, governments struggle to keep up with demand. In megacities, the growing population also causes more pollution. As the population grows, the working and environmental conditions produce more pollution.

Where is Dhaka?

Dhaka is located in central Bangladesh, on the eastern banks of the Buriganga River.

Interesting Facts

Tomb of Pari Bibi at Lalbagh Fort

Dhaka has a population of 14, 399,000.
Dhaka covers 360 square kilometres.
It is labelled as the “Rickshaw Capital of the World.”
Dhaka is the seat of the government, parliament and judiciary of Bangladesh.
The name Dhaka originates from Dhakeshwari, or “The Hidden Goddess.”
Dhaka’s language is Bengali.
The two main religions in Dhaka are Hindu and Islam.

Climate

Dhaka has a hot, wet and humid, tropical climate. It has a distinct monsoonal season with an average temperature of 25 degrees C.

 

Environmental Issues

Due to poverty and lack of awareness in Bangladesh, the environment is being manifested by deforestation and depletion of soil nutrients. Wetlands have been flattened over to make infrastructure for Dhaka’s growing population, threatening to eliminate the regional biodiversity. Air and water pollution is also a major problem. Pollution is a serious problem for public health, and with Dhaka’s growing population, it is almost impossible to stop.

Economy

Slums of Dhaka

Bangladesh’s currency is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT).
They have two economic sectors: Agriculture and Manufacturing. Most Bangladeshis earn their living from farming, but Dhaka has a growing textile and garment manufacturing industry.
Bangladeshis have a small income per capita of US$520.

Allies and Enemies

The Dhaka Parliament Building

Dhaka has many allies, but not many enemies. It is allied with most Asian and developed countries, such as:
-China
-Japan
-US
-UK
Dhaka may be allied with many countries, but it only has three main enemies! These are:
-India
-Myanmar (Burma)
-Pakistan