Traffic congestion and public transportation have been recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exams. This topic is particularly relevant as urbanization continues to challenge cities worldwide. Let’s examine one of the most common question types regarding the role of public transportation in reducing traffic congestion.
Comparison of traffic congestion with and without public transportation
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that improving public transportation is the best way to reduce traffic congestion in cities, while others think there are more effective alternatives. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss arguments for public transportation as a solution
- Present alternative solutions
- Provide your personal perspective
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Band 8 Sample Essay
As cities grow increasingly congested, the debate over the most effective solution to traffic problems has intensified. While some advocate for enhanced public transportation systems, others argue that alternative measures might be more successful. In my opinion, while public transportation plays a crucial role, a combination of approaches is necessary for optimal results.
Those who support importance of public transport in reducing traffic congestion present compelling arguments. A well-developed public transport network can move significantly more people than private vehicles while occupying less road space. For instance, a single metro line in Tokyo can transport up to 50,000 passengers per hour, equivalent to the capacity of 25 highway lanes. Moreover, reliable public transportation encourages people to leave their cars at home, directly reducing vehicle numbers on roads.
However, critics suggest various alternatives that merit consideration. Implementation of smart traffic management systems, including AI-controlled traffic lights and real-time congestion monitoring, has shown remarkable results in cities like Singapore. Additionally, promoting remote work policies and implementing congestion pricing in central business districts has effectively reduced peak-hour traffic in several metropolitan areas.
In my view, while these alternatives are valuable, they should complement rather than replace public transportation improvements. The role of public transportation in urban development remains fundamental, but its effectiveness increases when combined with other measures. Cities like Copenhagen demonstrate how integrating public transport with cycling infrastructure and smart traffic management creates comprehensive solutions to congestion.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Many people discuss different ways to solve traffic problems in cities. Some think better public transport is the answer, while others believe we need different solutions. I think both sides have good points, but public transport is very important.
Public transport can help reduce traffic in several ways. When buses and trains work well, many people choose them instead of driving cars. For example, in my city, when they opened a new metro line, the roads became less crowded. Also, buses and trains can carry many more people than cars, which helps make the roads clearer.
Advantages of public transportation over private vehicles include saving money and reducing pollution. However, some people think other solutions work better. They suggest building more roads, making people pay to drive in busy areas, or encouraging people to work from home. These ideas have worked in some places.
I believe the best solution is to improve public transport while also using other methods. Cities need good trains and buses, but they also need better road planning and modern technology to control traffic. When cities use many different solutions together, they get better results.
Essay Analysis
Band 8 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with coherent arguments
- Balanced discussion with well-developed ideas
- Effective use of specific examples
- Strong cohesive devices
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simpler vocabulary and sentence structures
- Basic but clear organization
- Limited development of ideas
- More general examples
- Basic cohesive devices
Key Vocabulary
- congestion (n) /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – traffic jam
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical systems of a place
- metropolitan (adj) /ˌmetrəˈpɒlɪtən/ – relating to a large city
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including all aspects
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- The role of private vehicles in urban congestion
- Public transportation accessibility and social equality
- Smart city solutions for traffic management
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion!
