Classification of Towns on the Basis of Population Size:

Towns can be classified into different categories based on their population size. This classification helps in understanding the characteristics and functions of towns in a particular region. The classification of towns based on population size is as follows:

1. Metropolitan Cities: Metropolitan cities are the largest and most populous urban areas in a country. They have a population of more than 10 million people. These cities serve as major economic, political, and cultural centers, offering a wide range of amenities and opportunities. Examples of metropolitan cities include Tokyo, New York City, and Mumbai.

2. Megalopolis: A megalopolis refers to a large urban region comprising several metropolitan areas that have merged together due to continuous urbanization and expansion. These areas often have a population exceeding 10 million people. The Northeast Megalopolis in the United States, consisting of cities such as Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C., is a prominent example of a megalopolis.

3. Large Cities: Large cities are urban areas with a population ranging from 1 million to 10 million people. These cities have significant economic, administrative, and cultural importance within their respective regions. Examples of large cities include London, Los Angeles, and Delhi.

4. Medium Cities: Medium cities are urban areas with a population ranging from 100,000 to 1 million people. These cities have a moderate level of economic and social development and often serve as regional centers for trade, education, and healthcare. Examples of medium cities include Chandigarh in India and Bristol in the United Kingdom.

5. Small Cities: Small cities have a population ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 people. These cities usually have a more localized economy and provide essential services to the surrounding rural areas. Small cities often have a close-knit community and a slower pace of life. Examples of small cities include Bath in the United Kingdom and Salem in India.

6. Townships: Townships are small urban settlements with a population ranging from a few thousand to 20,000 people. These settlements are often located in rural areas and provide basic amenities and services to the local population. Townships typically have a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

7. Rural Settlements: Rural settlements are small, dispersed communities with a population of less than a few thousand people. These settlements are primarily agricultural or based on natural resource extraction. They lack the urban amenities and infrastructure found in towns and cities.

In conclusion, towns can be classified into various categories based on their population size, ranging from metropolitan cities with millions of inhabitants to rural settlements with only a few hundred people. This classification helps in understanding the diverse nature and functions of settlements in different regions.