Shanghai, where about 30 million people live, is one of the largest cities in the world. Asian megacities: economic boom against the background of population growth and climatic problems Economic development The rapidly growing megalopolises of Asia – the driving force of economic growth in the region – already in the near future will encounter difficulties in their development, such as increasing temperature, aging and uncontrolled urban development. ~ 60 > currently in Asia there are seven of the ten most densely cities in the world; The top ten Tokyo, Delhi, Shanghai and Dacca are headed. These colosses, for a long time considered symbols of urbanistic progress, now threaten to throw back the economy of their countries. ~ ~ ~ p >In its new report, the economic and social commission & NBSP; for Asia and the Pacific Ocean (Escato), it warns that without urgent and inclusive actions, megacities risk encountering growing inequality, overloading public services, as well as aggravated social and ecological Tension. 60 > “Way to the implementation of the agenda in the field of sustainable development for the period until 2030 is running through cities,” wrote Salcia Alishahban, executive secretary in the preface to the report of Armida Salcia. Escato. 60 ~ h2 > rapid temperature growth ~ 60 > climate crisis forces many Asian cities to work at the limit of their capabilities. In 2024, record temperatures in South and Southeast Asia subjected the infrastructure and healthcare systems significant loads. Elderly people and citizens with low income suffer more than others. In the period from 2000 to 2019, almost half of all deaths associated with the heat in the world was in the Asia-Pacific region. With an increase in temperature and reducing the area of green spaces, risks increase even more. Search for Solutions Some megalopolises are already actively investing in adaptation to extremal climatic phenomena. So, in the expanded floods of the new Pudun district in Shanghai, the authorities established a system of forecasting and early warning in real time, covering more than 1200 square kilometers. Analyzing the weather forecasts and hydrological data, the system allows you to quickly simulate the development trajectory during the impending natural disaster and provide local authorities with a critical time to take preventive measures. ~ 60 > quickly aging aging population The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing a deep demographic shift. According to forecasts, by 2050 the number of elderly people living in it will reach 1.3 billion people, which is almost twice as much as in 2024. 60 > as the birth rate and slowing down migration in the rural areas of the city are aging, and in some cases their population begins to contract. This trend exerts growing pressure on urban planners, forcing them to adapt infrastructure, healthcare and utilities to the needs of elderly residents, many of whom live alone. Nevertheless, most megacities remain not prepared enough for demographic changes. View of Dacca, the capital of Bangladesh. expansion of informal settlements 60 > third trend that the authors of the report drew attention to is the rapid growth of informal settlements and slums. ~ 60 > in conditions And the stagnations of wages are forced to live in slums and areas unregulated by the municipal authorities. Such areas are the first to encounter climatic shocks and the latter receive emergency assistance and services in the field of sanitation. ~ 60 > “when housing is primarily considered a profitable investment and goods, and not a place for living, this creates systemic risks for the city budget and, as a result, for the national and even the national and even The global economy, ”the report is noted. 60 ~ h2 > risks and possibilities 60 > despite the Escato emphasize that cities still play a central role in building a sustainable future in Asia. The authors of the report urge “turn the risks into opportunities.” For this, in their opinion, it is necessary to develop comprehensive urban planning, strengthen local data systems and diversify the financing of city projects. The report also calls for countries to strengthen regional cooperation and exchange experience.