Public transportation and urban congestion have been recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of tests between 2019-2023. This topic’s frequency reflects its global relevance, particularly for candidates from rapidly urbanizing countries such as China, India, and Vietnam. The role of public transportation in reducing urban congestion continues to be a critical discussion point in urban development.
Comparison of public transport versus private vehicles in urban areas
Analysis of Task 2 Question
Some people believe that governments should invest more money in public transportation to reduce traffic congestion in cities. Others think there are better alternatives to solve this problem. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on solving urban traffic congestion
- Present arguments for public transportation investment
- Explore alternative solutions
- Provide a personal stance supported by evidence
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Cities worldwide face increasingly severe traffic congestion, and while Investment in public transportation vs. roads remains a popular solution, other approaches deserve consideration.
Those advocating for increased public transportation funding argue that it offers several compelling advantages. Firstly, mass transit systems can move significantly more people using less space compared to private vehicles. For instance, a single subway train can transport the equivalent of hundreds of cars’ worth of passengers. Additionally, reliable public transportation encourages people to leave their vehicles at home, directly reducing road congestion.
However, critics suggest alternative solutions that may prove more effective. One approach involves implementing smart traffic management systems using artificial intelligence to optimize traffic flow. Another solution focuses on decentralizing cities by creating multiple business districts, thereby distributing traffic more evenly. These alternatives may require less investment while potentially yielding better results.
In my opinion, while Alternative fuels for transportation and other solutions are important, substantial investment in public transportation remains crucial. The success of cities like Singapore and Tokyo demonstrates that comprehensive public transport networks, combined with policies discouraging private vehicle use, can effectively manage urban congestion. However, this approach should be part of an integrated strategy that includes multiple solutions.
To conclude, while alternative approaches have merit, significant investment in public transportation, coupled with supporting policies, represents the most sustainable solution to urban congestion. This comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate traffic issues but also promotes long-term urban sustainability.
Modern public transportation system reducing urban congestion
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Traffic congestion is a big problem in many cities today. Some people think governments should spend more money on public transport, but others have different ideas about solving this problem.
Public transport investment has some good points. Buses and trains can carry many people at once, which means fewer cars on the roads. For example, in my city, when new bus routes started, traffic became better in some areas. Also, public transport is cheaper for people to use than having their own car.
But other solutions might work too. Some people think making more roads or building new parking areas can help. Others say we should make people pay more money to drive in busy areas, like in London. These ideas might work better than spending lots of money on public transport.
I think Importance of public transport in city development is very important, but we need to use other solutions too. If cities only focus on public transport, they might waste money if people don’t want to use it. The best way is to use different solutions together.
In conclusion, while public transport is important, using different methods together is the best way to solve traffic problems in cities.
Key Vocabulary
- urban congestion (n) /ˈɜːbən kənˈdʒestʃən/ – traffic problems in cities
- mass transit system (n) /mæs ˈtrænsɪt ˈsɪstəm/ – public transportation network
- decentralization (n) /diːˌsentrəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – spreading out from the center
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over time without causing problems
- integrated (adj) /ˈɪntɪɡreɪtɪd/ – combined in an effective way
- optimize (v) /ˈɒptɪmaɪz/ – make as effective as possible
Practice Suggestions
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The role of congestion pricing in urban areas
- Impact of remote working on traffic congestion
- Bicycle infrastructure development in cities
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback from fellow learners. Remember that should public transit be accessible to all remains a key consideration in any discussion of urban transportation solutions.
