Read the following passage about counter-urbanization and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.
Counter-urbanisation, the process of people migrating from urban areas to live in rural ones, has become increasingly common in Vietnam in recent years. To illustrate, a number of people have decided to leave bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City for rural areas. Counter-urbanisation is a new phenomenon with several benefits and potential problems for the whole nation.
Counter-urbanisation can bring positive effects on a country. Moving away from major cities can help to alleviate issues such as overcrowding, traffic congestion and pollution in those urban areas. What's more, it can even create opportunities for rural development as an increase in the rural population can encourage significant investment in businesses and infrastructure in the countryside. For instance, the growth of small enterprises and the improvement of transportation networks in rural areas are often direct outcomes of this demographic shift. Additionally, local communities may benefit from greater access to education, healthcare and employment opportunities as public and private sectors respond to rising demand.
However, counter-urbanisation has also brought challenges to rural areas in some cases. Many rural areas lack basic amenities such as medical facilities, schools and public transportation, making it difficult for newcomers to settle in. This puts a strain on rural infrastructure and services. At the same time, there is a real risk of environmental damage as more people move into previously undeveloped areas. Deforestation, pollution, and other environmental issues can arise as a result of increased human activities in these areas.
In conclusion, counter-urbanisation is a new trend that comes with advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, local governments and communities will need to work together to effectively manage public services, energy supplies and natural resources in order to promote economic extension and sustainable development.
(Adapted from Bright 12)
