Read the following passage about urbanisation and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions.
URBANISATION: A GROWING PHENOMENON
Urbanisation is the process through which cities grow, and higher populations begin to inhabit urban areas. This phenomenon has accelerated significantly over the past few decades due to various factors. One of the primary drivers is the search for better employment opportunities. In rural areas, job prospects are often limited to agriculture and small-scale industries, which might not provide sufficient income. Consequently, people migrate to cities seeking better livelihoods and living standards.
Additionally, urban areas offer more advanced educational facilities and healthcare services compared to rural regions. Many families move to cities to provide their children with higher-quality education and greater future opportunities. Access to hospitals and specialized medical services also attracts people to urban centers, especially in countries where rural healthcare is underdeveloped.
However, rapid urbanisation brings about several challenges. Overcrowding in cities can lead to inadequate housing, strained infrastructure, and increased pollution. The expansion of urban areas often results in the loss of green spaces and agricultural land, impacting food production and the environment. Governments and city planners must address these issues to ensure sustainable urban growth.
Despite these challenges, urbanisation has several positive aspects. Cities are often cultural melting pots, where diverse groups of people interact, leading to vibrant communities and innovation. The concentration of resources and talents in urban areas can drive economic growth and technological advancements.
The word This phenomenon in paragraph 1 refers to ____.
