Comparison between the Problems of Urbanization in Quetta City and Hub City: An Urban Geographical Perspective

Abstract

Urbanization is a pressing global phenomenon, particularly in developing countries, where it poses complex challenges to urban populations. It continues to shape cities leading to complex issues of environmental degradation, impacting public health and socio-economic inequalities. The main objective of the present study is to assess the urbanization problems of Quetta City and Hub City in Balochistan, Pakistan. The research methodology of this study consists of a combination of both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The methods used for the comparative study of urbanization problems include literature review, comparative analysis, interviews with stakeholders, and spatial analysis using ArcGIS 10.8.2, Google Earth Pro, and Google Earth Engine (GEE).The findings of the study revealed that both cities have experienced rapid urban growth, leading to significant problems. Both cities are experiencing urban sprawl (1985-2025) which has resulted in the urban heat island (UHI), air and water pollution, insufficient healthcare facilities, water scarcity, and loss of green spaces. The study results also highlighted that, along with these factors, urbanization is aggravating socio-economic inequalities for at-risk groups, which is not specific to any one city. Insufficient access to basic services, such as sanitation and healthcare, complexes public health challenges, mostly in slum areas. Both cities have experienced rapid urban growth, leading to significant problems in both cities. The study suggests that both cities are experiencing urban sprawl which has resulted in the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon, air and water pollution, insufficient healthcare facilities, water scarcity, solid waste management issues, urban planning and sustainability issues, and water quality issues.Additionally, the comparison highlights the unique urban problems in each city, calling for policy-level interventions to advance urban sustainability and mitigate urban socioeconomic inequalities. This in-depth study adds to the sparse literature on urban issues in Balochistan and calls for urgency in solving urban issues rigorously through intelligent urban planning and management.