What does the term 'megalopolis' refer to in urban development?

The term 'megalopolis' refers specifically to a region in which multiple urban centers or cities have grown physically close to each other, often overlapping in their metropolitan areas. This phenomenon occurs as smaller cities expand and connect with neighboring urban areas, leading to a significant concentration of population, economic activity, and infrastructure.

Typically, a megalopolis encompasses a vast network of interconnected urban areas, characterized by high population density and extensive transportation systems that link these cities. This concept highlights the transition from individual urban centers to a more extensive urbanized region, reflecting trends in growth patterns, migration, and regional planning.

Understanding the term in this context is crucial for grasping the dynamics of urban development, particularly concerning infrastructure needs, socio-economic interactions, and environmental impacts that arise from densely populated regions.