Use of English

Growing Cities

Modern cities are growing at an extraordinary rate. As more people move from the countryside to urban areas in search of work, housing and public services often struggle to keep (0) UP. Although urbanisation can bring economic growth and cultural exchange, it also creates serious problems that are difficult to deal with. One major issue is transport. In many large cities, roads are so crowded that traffic (1) .......... have become a daily reality. As a result, commuters waste hours getting to work, and air pollution continues to build (2) .......... . Another challenge is the rising cost of living. In some places, property prices have gone (3) .......... so sharply that ordinary workers can no longer afford to live near the city centre. Urban growth also puts pressure (4) .......... basic services such as water, electricity and waste collection. When city planning is poor, entire neighbourhoods may be left without proper facilities. This can lead (5) .......... health problems and social inequality. Governments are therefore being forced to come (6) .......... with long-term solutions, including better public transport and more affordable housing. If cities are to remain attractive places to live, officials must act quickly. Otherwise, the disadvantages of urbanisation may begin to (7) .......... out the benefits, and living conditions could get even (8) .......... in the future.