Two Pakistani Cities Ranked Among the World’s Most Populated Urban Areas in Latest Global Report

Two of Pakistan’s largest cities, Karachi and Lahore, have been ranked among the world’s most populated urban centers, according to new data from World Population Review. The report places Karachi at 12th with a population of 18.07 million, while Lahore stands at 20th globally with 14.82 million residents. Although not in the top 10, both cities continue to grow rapidly, reflecting broader urbanization trends across South Asia.

Globally, Tokyo remains the most populous city, with 37.03 million people, despite experiencing a minor population decline of 0.21 percent. New Delhi follows closely in second place with 34.66 million residents, marking a growth rate of 2.54 percent. Shanghai ranks third with 30.48 million people, showing a 2.06 percent increase since 2024.

Other densely populated cities include Dhaka at fourth with 24.65 million (a 3 percent rise), and Cairo in fifth with 23.07 million. São Paulo, Beijing, and Mumbai also appear in the top 10, each with populations exceeding 22 million.

The inclusion of Karachi and Lahore in the global rankings highlights Pakistan’s ongoing demographic shift and urban expansion. As these cities continue to grow, they face increasing challenges related to infrastructure, public services, housing, and environmental sustainability—issues that require strategic planning to manage effectively.