How does urbanisation typically affect water availability?

Urbanisation typically leads to higher demand for water resources due to the concentration of population and economic activities in urban areas. As cities grow, the number of residents increases significantly, leading to greater consumption of water for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use. This heightened demand can strain local water supplies, particularly if the infrastructure for water delivery and wastewater management is not developed to keep pace with growth.

Additionally, urban areas often have less permeable surfaces due to buildings and roads, which can reduce groundwater recharge and lead to greater runoff, affecting the availability of water. Hence, the accelerated demand and altered hydrological cycles associated with urbanisation emphasize the relationship between population density and resource management, making it crucial to adopt sustainable practices to manage water supplies effectively in rapidly urbanising regions.