You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think governments should spend money on faster means of public transport. However, others think money should be spent on other priorities.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.
You should write at least 250 words.
Get your Detailed Essay Feedback from an IELTS Examiner
Get our downloadable eBooks, learn the details how to write a high band essay
IELTS Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay (1)
The debate over whether government funds should be channelled into accelerating public transportation is polarizing, with fiscal and environmental factors cited as competing priorities. I assert that despite cost and environmental considerations, the advantages of a swift public transit system make it a necessary focus for government spending. Specifically, this essay will tackle the benefits of reducing traffic congestion and bolstering economic productivity, while also addressing the financial and environmental counterarguments.
A compelling case for prioritizing investment in public transportation emanates from its potential to significantly ease urban congestion. Reduced travel time not only elevates the quality of life for daily commuters but also contributes to heightened levels of societal well-being. In addition, a seamless transit network fosters economic vitality by facilitating quicker commutes for employees and the rapid transit of goods. This, in turn, amplifies economic growth, generates employment, and augments the attractiveness of a city to prospective investors.
Another aspect worthy of attention is the promotion of social inclusivity through affordable and easily accessible public transport. This is especially pertinent for marginalized communities and those without access to private means of transport. Moreover, a well-designed and impeccably maintained system incentivizes individuals to opt for public transport over personal vehicles, culminating in a substantial reduction in carbon emissions and, consequently, improved air quality.
However, it's crucial to acknowledge the financial burdens and environmental ramifications of such projects. Financially, these endeavors necessitate colossal investments, which can strain public coffers. This can be eased through innovative funding models such as public-private partnerships and the implementation of congestion charges. Environmentally, the construction process can be carbon-intensive. Yet, these impacts can be alleviated through the selection of sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies, coupled with a longer-term shift to electric or hybrid modes of transport.
In conclusion, the expeditious development of public transport systems should take precedence in government spending plans. The temporary challenges tied to financial and environmental considerations are surmountable through creative problem-solving and technological ingenuity. The resultant benefits—ranging from reduced congestion and travel times to greater social equity and environmental stewardship—far outweigh any associated detriments.
Get your Detailed Essay Feedback from an IELTS Examiner
Get our downloadable eBooks, learn the details how to write a high band essay
IELTS Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay (2)
It is often posited that governmental funds should be allocated towards enhancing the speed of public transportation, while a contrasting perspective advocates for a concentration on other aspects, particularly cost efficiency and environmental preservation. While rapid transit systems undeniably offer significant societal benefits, I am of the firm belief that the government should prioritise investing in eco-friendly and cost-effective public transportation.
There is no denying that expediting public transport can have transformative effects on urban life. A reduction in travel time allows individuals to devote more hours to personal pursuits, thereby improving their quality of life. For example, the implementation of the Shinkansen - Japan's high-speed rail system - has dramatically slashed commuting times, thereby enabling urban residents to enjoy more leisure time, thus contributing to an overall enhancement of societal well-being.
However, while the allure of faster transport is palpable, focusing on this aspect alone overlooks other critical considerations. The burgeoning costs of public transport impose a substantial financial burden on many, particularly those from lower socio-economic strata. Thus, redirecting resources to making public transportation more affordable could have a far-reaching impact on social equity.
Moreover, the role of public transport in environmental conservation cannot be underestimated. In the face of the global climate crisis, the transition to greener transport options is not only desirable but imperative. Investment in eco-friendly transport methods, such as electric or solar-powered buses, could significantly diminish carbon emissions. For instance, the city of Shenzhen in China has entirely transitioned to electric buses, setting a precedent for how large-scale investment in green transport can yield both environmental and economic benefits.
In conclusion, while faster public transport offers considerable benefits, the potential of cost-effective and environmentally sustainable public transport cannot be overlooked. It is incumbent upon governments to balance the immediate appeal of speed with the long-term benefits of affordability and sustainability.
Get our downloadable eBooks, learn the details how to write a high band essay
IELTS Task 2 Band 8.5 Sample Essay
While there is a contingent that believes government expenditure should be prioritized for the development of high-speed public transportation, others argue for the diversion of these resources to other critical concerns, such as cost reduction and environmental preservation. Although faster transportation can certainly enhance citizens' quality of life by diminishing commute times, my conviction lies in addressing more pressing transport issues, including the escalating costs and the environmental ramifications.
The reduction in travel time can indeed have a profound societal impact. By decreasing time spent on buses, trains, or trams, urban dwellers can gain additional leisure time, providing opportunities to spend more time with family, engage in recreational activities or even pursue side-lined interests due to time constraints. This could lead to an overall enhancement of societal well-being. A prime example of this is Hong Kong's high-speed rail system, which has significantly reduced travel times and is highly appreciated by the populace.
However, while the issue of slow journeys is certainly a significant concern governments aim to tackle, there are other equally pressing problems that demand attention, such as spiralling transportation costs and their contribution to global warming. It is incumbent upon us to divert public resources towards the development of eco-friendly transportation, which can help reduce our carbon footprint and contain transportation costs. For instance, the introduction of electric buses or solar-powered railways not only aids in the conservation of the natural environment but also allows the government to allocate financial resources to other pressing matters such as mental health and elderly care issues.
In conclusion, while the benefits of reduced commute times cannot be ignored, the potentially negative implications associated with cost and environmental degradation must also be taken into account. It is within the government's purview to introduce measures to manage costs effectively and implement environmentally friendly practices for public transportation. In doing so, we can ensure that citizens are able to complete their journeys in a manner that is both financially and ecologically sustainable.
IELTS Task 2 Band 8 Sample Essay
Some individuals are of the opinion that a government fund should be prioritized on implementing a faster mode of public transport, whereas others view that this financial support is more important for other essential areas. While faster means of public transport can benefit overall economy by reducing travel time and saving work hours, I believe that it is a lot more important for a government to spend most of its fund on citizens’ basic needs, such as healthcare and education.
A faster public transportation system comes up with a broad impact on a nation’s economy. The GDP (gross domestic product) growth of an economy vastly depends on the productivity of the mass people of a country. General people predominantly use public transports, such as the bus, train etc. If these means are fast enough, the commuters will need less travel time and save a significant number of productive hours, which will eventually benefit the overall national economy. For example, the Chinese government had a massive amount of budget to develop its public transport system in the 1990s, as a result, they are enjoying the benefit of an overall economic growth.
On the contrary, one of the most effective uses of a government fund is to reduce the day-to-day expenditure of citizens’ essentials. This reduction could be in terms of providing subsidies on healthcare and education to produce a healthy and skilled workforce. Moreover, a robust health and education system has a trickle-down effect on the overall happiness, as healthy and educated people stay active, earn money, can meet the basic needs, and eventually live a decent happy life. For instance, Canadian citizens’ happiness index rose from 55% to 86% over the last few decades, and all this is due to the government funded education and healthcare services.
To conclude, a faster mode of public transport might be a craving sector, but when it comes to the priority of government spending, there are other fundamental sectors, like health and education to be addressed at first.
Get your Detailed Essay Feedback from an IELTS Examiner
Get our downloadable eBooks, learn the details how to write a high band essay