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Public Transport Is Essential But Problematic - IELTS Task 2 Essay


Public Transport Is Essential But Problematic - IELTS Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay


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Model Essay 1

Public transport is indispensable for urban commuting yet beset by notable inefficiencies. This essay will analyse key issues such as overcrowding and environmental harm, and propose tailored solutions including demand-responsive transport and a shift towards greener vehicles, aimed at enhancing both comfort and sustainability in urban transit systems.


Firstly, overcrowding remains a prevalent concern in many public transport networks, particularly during peak hours. This issue not only detracts from passenger comfort but also raises safety concerns, making commuting a stressful experience. For instance, in cities like Tokyo and New York, rush hour congestion can lead to significant delays and even pose health risks during events like heatwaves or pandemics, exacerbating the discomfort of dense, confined spaces. A practical solution is the implementation of demand-responsive transport systems. By adjusting the frequency and routes of buses and trains based on real-time data, cities can better manage passenger loads and reduce congestion. Additionally, promoting off-peak travel through reduced fares could incentivize users to travel at less congested times, thus evening out passenger distribution throughout the day and enhancing overall transport efficiency.


Another critical issue is the environmental impact of traditional public transport, which often relies on fossil fuels. This reliance contributes significantly to urban air pollution and broader environmental degradation, compounding the global challenge of climate change. Transitioning to greener alternatives, such as electric or hydrogen-fuelled vehicles, could significantly mitigate these effects. For example, Shenzhen, China, has successfully converted its entire bus fleet to electric, demonstrating a profound reduction in carbon emissions and setting a benchmark for other cities. Moreover, enhancing the integration of cycling and walking with public transport networks could encourage more environmentally friendly commuting options. Installing more bike racks at transit stations and improving pedestrian access can make these healthy alternatives more appealing and accessible, fostering a more sustainable and integrated urban transport ecosystem.


In conclusion, public transport is vital yet fraught with issues like overcrowding and environmental impact. Effectively addressing these challenges through demand-responsive transport and greener vehicle options not only enhances operational efficiency but also promotes sustainability.


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Model Essay 2

Public transport, while fundamental to urban mobility, often presents a myriad of challenges. These include frequent delays, overcrowding, and environmental concerns. Addressing these issues can significantly enhance its efficiency and appeal. This essay will explore the specific problems associated with public transport and propose practical solutions to these issues.


Firstly, delays in public transport, often stemming from outdated infrastructure and poor scheduling, cause significant frustration among users. In many urban areas, the lack of synchronization between buses and trains exacerbates this issue, leading to longer, unpredictable travel times. Integrating advanced traffic management systems that utilize real-time data could dramatically improve this situation. For example, Singapore's adoption of dynamic scheduling technology adjusts transit operations in response to live traffic conditions, which has proven effective in minimizing delays and enhancing reliability. This approach not only reduces waiting times but also improves the overall user experience by providing more predictable and efficient service.


Secondly, overcrowding on public transport, particularly during peak hours, poses a major challenge in populous cities. This situation often results in uncomfortable and inefficient travel experiences, deterring potential users. Expanding transit capacity by increasing the frequency of services and investing in larger vehicles can effectively address this issue. Additionally, incentivizing off-peak travel with reduced fares can distribute passenger loads more evenly throughout the day. London has implemented such measures with its 'Off-Peak' fare system, which not only relieves congestion during rush hours but also optimizes overall network efficiency by encouraging travel at less busy times. These strategies not only enhance comfort but also make public transport a more viable option for daily commuters, potentially increasing overall ridership.


In conclusion, while public transport is essential for sustainable urban living, its effectiveness is hindered by issues like delays and overcrowding. By adopting smart traffic technologies and enhancing service capacity, these problems can be addressed, making public transport a more reliable and attractive option for commuters.


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Model Essay 3

In the day and age of interconnectivity, public transport has become not only complicated but also essential for daily lives. This essay will explore some problematic areas of it and the potential solutions to alleviate their impacts.


One major problem due to modern-day public transport is the destruction on the natural environment. In order to widen the roads, trees along the roadsides may be cut down and this, in turn, will disrupt the local wild life of small creatures and birds. Building new expressways sometimes require clearing out large areas of forest and this may put an already fragile ecosystem into a further peril. Some other unfavourable aspects of public transport include problems such as noise pollution and overcrowding. One can easily imagine that living near a busy international airport will not bring peaceful quiet nights and the peak-hour subway trains are the ticking time bomb for the next pandemic.


There are a number of options to tackle these issues. First of all, the governments should place stricter regulations to include sustainability measures in the transportation development projects, such as setting up conservation areas to protect the local flora and fauna. They should also mandate for multidisciplinary committees with experts from various sectors to review the existing city blueprints and identify areas that are due for reforming, for example, relocating large-scale transportation hubs away from the general public housing areas. Last but not least, governments should add more buses and trains and introduce reliable schedules to bring down the crowd density on public transports.


In conclusion, public transport is one of the most important features in our lives and we cannot live without it. While there are multiple problems and inconveniences that are posed by public transport, there are also a myriad of solutions available to tackle these problems.


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