As of 2017 there are 37 megacities in the world, a classification usually given when the population of a large city or urban area exceeds that of 10 million. Megacities act like powerful magnets; they draw people in from all walks of life, especially those in search of something greater, be it wealth, prosperity or acceptance. The megacities of the developed world are often considered to be the best places to live and visit; they play a vital role in the global economy, are highly influential on a political scale, provide unlimited opportunities and are at the heart of culture, art, music and fashion. The top 4 most powerful cities in the world (London, New York, Tokyo and Paris), as classified by the Global Power City Index (GPCI) are all megacities.
On the other hand, the megacities of the developing world are often ranked some of the worst places to live on Earth, and are commonly at the mercy of problems such as overpopulation, exhausted infrastructure, poor sanitation and high crime rates. According to the United Nations, in some megacities (such as Mumbai) the number of inhabitants living in slums can be up to 50%.
Each megacity is one-of-a-kind; they are fascinating, terrifying, inspirational and awe-inspiring. Here are 25 stunning images of the world's megacities, as photographed by Picfair's global network of visual artists, showing the sheer scale and diversity of Earth’s most densely populated areas. Approximately 7% of the world's population currently live in megacities. As urbanisation increases across the globe, the number of megacities will undoubtedly double over the next 50 years.
Shanghai (population 25.2 million) usually isn't blessed with amazingly clear skies; a mix of pollution, low-hanging clouds and haze coming in from the sea often bury the city u... Read more
Shanghai (population 25.2 million) usually isn't blessed with amazingly clear skies; a mix of pollution, low-hanging clouds and haze coming in from the sea often bury the city under a muddy, grey layer of visibility-eliminating clouds. But then comes summer and with it rain and thunderstorms, after which for just a little bit you get skies and sunsets so beautiful they make you hope that one day the Chinese government gets at least the pollution under control. Read less
by Chris Petersen-Clausen
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