Urban sprawl refers to the expansion of poorly planned and auto-dependant development which spreads out over a very large area of lands creating huge distances between residential and commercial uses.

As it has some benefits like creating local economic growth, urban sprawl has many negative consequences like traffic jams, air and water pollution, reduction in the farmlands and green areas, increase in concrete structures, wastage of rainwater, increased car dependency and extinction of many species of birds and animals.

The authorities concerned should develop certain standards and laws to stop this unplanned urban sprawl.

Shahzaib Khalid

Lahore

Published in Dawn, January 3rd, 2019