New Delhi: Indonesia’s bustling capital, Jakarta, has claimed the title of the world’s most populated city, surpassing Tokyo, according to a recent United Nations report.
With an estimated 41.9 million residents in its metropolitan area, Jakarta’s rapid urban growth has outpaced the Japanese capital, which now holds third place with 33.4 million. Dhaka holds the second position with 36.6 million.
New Delhi, home to 30.2 million people, secured the fourth spot, followed by Shanghai’s 29.6 million, in a ranking that underscores Asia’s dominance in global urbanisation.
The report, released on Wednesday, highlights Jakarta’s sprawling Greater Jakarta region, encompassing satellite cities like Bekasi and Tangerang, as a key driver of its population surge. Factors such as rural migration, economic opportunities, and lax urban planning have fuelled this growth, though challenges like traffic congestion and flooding persist. Tokyo, long the world’s urban giant, saw slower population gains due to Japan’s ageing demographic.
New Delhi’s fourth-place ranking reflects India’s urban boom, with the National Capital Region absorbing millions seeking jobs and education. However, experts warn of strain on infrastructure, with air pollution and housing shortages looming large. Kolkata, ranking eighth with 22.5 million, further cements India’s urban prominence.
The shift signals a new era for global cities, with Jakarta’s rise spotlighting Southeast Asia’s economic ascent. As New Delhi and Kolkata figure in the top
10 list, India faces the dual task of harnessing urban potential while addressing sustainability.