World's Top 10 Mega Metropolises: From Mumbai to Shanghai, Exploring the Colossal Urban Giants of Our Planet
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Source of the image: insider.com |
Tour, AchehNetwork.com - In a world teeming with 7.53 billion souls, humanity's presence is anything but uniform across our planet's surface.
Moreover, we don't just spread ourselves evenly within Earth's habitable regions, excluding deserts and tundras.
Let's embark on a journey to explore the top 10 most colossal urban giants worldwide - these are the metropolises where a substantial fraction of the global populace calls home.
1. Mumbai, India - Where Dreams Take Center Stage
With a population of 12.4 million, Mumbai graces the western shores of the Indian Subcontinent.
It was birthed by the British in the 17th century and has since grown into a dazzling metropolis.
Nestled along the coast, Mumbai's expansion is intricately woven into its maritime history.
By the mid-18th century, it had blossomed into a thriving trade and manufacturing hub.
But that's not all; it's also the beating heart of Bollywood, contributing to one of the world's most substantial Gross Domestic Products (GDP).
2. Tianjin, China - A Tapestry of Traditions and Prosperity
Tianjin, with its 12.7 million residents, graces the northern shores of China, where the tides of history and commerce have intertwined seamlessly.
Influenced by colonialism, this city boasts a mesmerizing blend of traditional Chinese and European architecture.
Surpassing all other Chinese cities in per capita GDP (exceeding $17,000), it thrives as a bustling trading hub thanks to its picturesque waterfront.
3. Manila, Philippines - A City Forged in Diversity
With a population of about 12.8 million, Manila stands as a testament to resilience and diverse history.
Founded by the Spanish in 1571, it was later reimagined by American urban planner Daniel Burnham in 1905.
Manila is both the capital of the Philippines and a bustling port with a rich tapestry of experiences.
Despite enduring natural calamities like floods, tsunamis, and storms, its population continues to burgeon.
4. Moscow, Russia - A Tale of Two Cities
The capital of Russia, Moscow, is a sprawling metropolis of over 13.1 million inhabitants.
Steady population growth has led to the gradual expansion of city limits and a hallmark of traffic jams during rush hours.
Nevertheless, Moscow's charm lies in its multitude of green spaces and unique architectural wonders that beckon both residents and visitors.
5. Tokyo, Japan - A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
Tokyo, with approximately 13.6 million denizens, serves as the dynamic capital of Japan.
This mega-metropolis houses 51 Fortune 500 companies and ranks fourth in the Global City Index.
Tokyo masterfully combines modernity and tradition, adapting seamlessly to its ever-expanding population.
6. Dhaka, Bangladesh - The City of Unstoppable Growth
With just over 14.5 million residents, Dhaka reigns as one of South Asia's largest cities.
Rapid population growth in recent decades, driven by those seeking economic opportunities, has transformed it into a financial and cultural nucleus of Bangladesh.
7. Istanbul, Turkey - A Living Museum of History
Established in 660 BC during the Byzantine Empire, Istanbul has, over the centuries, transitioned from the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, Latin, and Ottoman Empires to becoming the vibrant heart of Turkey.
Boasting a population of around 14.6 million, Istanbul's rich history, culture, art, and entertainment make it a captivating destination for millions of tourists each year.
8. Karachi, Pakistan - The Economic Dynamo of the Arabian Sea
Karachi, nestled on the Arabian Sea, houses a staggering 18 million people and is the economic powerhouse of Pakistan.
It generates nearly 20% of the nation's GDP and possesses an urban economy valued at over $113 billion.
9. Beijing, China - Where History Meets Innovation
China's capital, Beijing, is a bustling cosmopolis of over 20 million residents.
As one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, it stands at the forefront of business with significant automotive, textile, chemical, and technology sectors.
The city's GDP soars above $174 billion.
10. Shanghai, China - The Pearl of the East
Shanghai, the largest city in China and the world, boasts a staggering population of over 24 million souls.
Located strategically in the Yangtze River Delta, it's home to the world's busiest port.
With rapid population and economic growth since 1992, Shanghai has blossomed into a modern trading hub, outshining its closest rival, Beijing.
From these vibrant urban hubs to the historical and cultural epicenters, our world is an awe-inspiring mosaic of diversity and dynamism.(*)