Overpopulation basically means that the population has surpassed the available resources. Overpopulation is a burden for any country but mainly occurs in developing countries. It also occurs where people traditionally have large families and believe that big families are a source of strength.The issue of overpopulation usually occurs due to ignorance and illiteracy. Parents are determined to have as many children as they please. They don’t think whether they can afford to feed them or not. Some communities strongly believe that we should not try to stop the natural process of conception and procreation.Another common reason for overpopulation is early marriages. People get their children married early, even before they are able to support their families, and then they have children.There is no concept of family planning. Other common reasons for overpopulation include the desire for a son, considering big families a source of strength, low death rates and the need for more earning hands.Some of the major effects of overpopulation include a shortage of natural resources. Sectors such as natural resources, health, education, and employment are impacted.Another effect of overpopulation is deforestation to create settlements, which causes harmful and adverse effects on our environment and increases global warming. Overpopulation also increases the cost of living.People have to pay more to survive. This, in result, will cause a lower standard of living because people will only focus on fulfilling their basic needs.It is the responsibility of the government and the general public alike to take measures to control overpopulation. The government should introduce and enforce laws governing the number of children, raising their level of education and employment, and raising the age of marriage.The general public can help by creating awareness for the countryside population, empowering women and telling them about the problems caused by an increased population, on health and economy alike.Pushpa LohanaPublished in The Express Tribune, September 18, 2016.Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook , follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.