Abstract:
Introduction. A thorough evaluation of the calculations used to determine the
boundaries of urban planning projects enables a comprehensive understanding of the
socio-economic, cultural, and labor connections between cities and settlements. The
significance of developing agglomerations in resource-limited environments lies in their
potential to achieve a synergistic effect, where the whole exceeds the sum of its parts.
Objectives. The research aims to identify the functional boundaries of the Shymkent
agglomeration. Materials and Methods. The boundaries of the Shymkent agglomeration
were determined using a methodological approach that integrates the agglomeration
development coefficient, Reilly’s gravitational theory, and geographic information system
(GIS) technologies. Results and Discussion. Potential countermagnet cities were
identified by employing GIS technologies to calculate the force of demographic gravity
from proximate settlements to the city of Shymkent. These cities serve as centers of
attraction that intercept migration flows towards Shymkent, thus assisting in mitigating
excess population growth in the city. Conclusions. The strategic development of
suburban settlements and key nodes within the Shymkent agglomeration can effectively
manage urban growth challenges, promoting a balanced and sustainable development
pattern. it is necessary to prevent the spontaneous growth of settlements caused by
population growth, which leads to the formation of imbalances in comprehensive service
systems and provides workplaces that can provoke social tensions.
