THE IMPACT OF RAPID URBANIZATION ON COMMUNITY TIES AND SOCIAL COHESION IN ABBOTTABAD

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Abbottabad is historically and geographically very important place, with the passage of time, rapid urbanization not only making it diverse but also congested. The land was popular for its serenity, peace and scenic scenes but now this beautiful hill station has become very rough and metropolitan. This diversity can foster cultural exchange and innovation, it also poses challenges to traditional community structures. Residents of Abbottabad are experiencing changes in their social networks, with many reporting a decline in face-to-face interactions and a sense of isolation amidst growing urban anonymity. The influx of outsiders and the proliferation of gated communities and commercial developments have altered neighborhood dynamics, often prioritizing individualism over communal living. This study aims to contribute to the discourse on urbanization and social change, offering insights into the ways in which cities like Abbottabad can balance growth and development with the preservation of community ties and social cohesion. This qualitative work is exploring the impacts of rapid urbanization with the help of primary and secondary sources e.g. profile of Abbottabad, biographies, books and articles. Unplanned urbanization is becoming the most vibrant problem of this city which is not only spoiling the beauty but also its colonial legacy. The concerned authorities must tackle with this serious problem otherwise this land would lost its original shine.