In Some Countries, The Government Has Tried to Reduce Traffic - IELTS Writing Task 2

In IELTS Writing task 2, like the 'In Some Countries, The Government Has Tried to Reduce Traffic,' students are asked to write a formal essay of at least 250 words, in 4-5 paragraphs, based on the given IELTS Writing Task 2 Positive/Negative essay topics.

The task is similar for both Academic and General Training with regards to the type of questions and the scoring, but the topics given for General Training will be slightly easier than Academic. Given below is a positive negative development question essay with sample answers that will help you to practise and get a good score.

Not sure how to approach IELTS Essay questions? Take a look at IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips!

Question

Structure Breakdown 

Do not forget that planning an outline for an essay in the IELTS Writing plays an important part in getting you a band of 8+. It helps in keeping your answer clear and coherent at the same time not letting you move away from the question. 

Let us  now look at the structure breakdown for the positive and negative essay topic, ‘In Some Countries, The Government Has Tried to Reduce Traffic.’

Band 9 Sample Answer - In Some Countries, The Government Has Tried to Reduce Traffic

During peak hours, traffic congestion on the roads is an inescapable occurrence and governments in certain countries have consequently imposed a tax for plying on the roads when it comes such a time. Some opine that this development is a favourable one, while others disagree and argue that it is a detrimental occurrence. I think that such a development could have adverse implications and in the following essay, I will explore both sides of this issue.

Firstly, the implementation of taxation on road users can economically agonize them. Since people already pay a number of taxes to the government, levying an additional tax specifically during peak hours may act as a financial encumbrance and overwhelm them. Additionally, numerous people are impelled to commute to work during rush hours and penalizing them would be an unfair decision on the part of governmental authorities.

Secondly, this policy may not be sustainable in the long-term and may not actually solve the problems caused by a profusion of traffic. Investing in building a better public transport system, such as an extensive rail network or ferries, may help reduce the overcrowding of roads rather than imposing taxes.

However, on the opposing side of the argument, it can be said that the financial resources obtained through congestion charges can allow the government to use them for enacting public welfare schemes. Imposing a tax for cars creating a bottleneck during peak hours can also encourage people to use more environmentally friendly means of transport or make use of public transport, reducing pollution levels.

Thus, in conclusion, it can be said that while government-enforced congestion tariffs may not be advantageous, it also has a few benefits which cannot be ignored.

Band 8 Sample Answer - In Some Countries, The Government Has Tried to Reduce Traffic

In some of the countries, governments have introduced policies such as congestion taxes mainly during rush hours to reduce traffic in developed cities. In my opinion, this is definitely a positive development just because it helps in controlling traffic congestion, reduces environmental damage, and also encourages people to adopt more and more sustainable transportation habits.

One important advantage of a congestion tax is that it is effectively reducing the number of vehicles on the road mainly during peak times. When drivers are expected to pay extra in order to enter busy areas, many of them choose alternatives such as public transport, travelling at less crowded times of the day, or even carpooling. This results in a smooth traffic flow, lesser frustration, and shorter commuting times for those who go to work as emergency workers or delivery drivers.

Another benefit is that it brings a positive impact on the environment. Traffic congestion is a major reason for air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing excessive car use, congestion taxes help people lower fuel consumption and reduce harmful emissions. Moreover, clean air improves public health, mainly in developed cities where pollution-related illnesses are common. This also makes urban areas healthier and more pleasant places to live. 

Adding on, the revenue coming from congestion taxes can be used to improve public infrastructure. Governments can invest this money in better public transport, cycling lanes, and road maintenance. Although some critics argue that congestion charges are unfair to low-income drivers, this issue can be addressed through discounts or improved affordable transport options. Overall, despite certain drawbacks, congestion taxes are a positive development that support sustainable urban growth and long-term traffic management.

Vocabulary to Answer “In Some Countries, The Government Has Tried to Reduce Traffic”

• Inescapable

Meaning – Unavoidable
Example – This summer, the unbearable heat and humidity was inescapable every time you left the house.

• Detrimental

Meaning – Adverse or unfavourable
Example – Consumption of tobacco products has a detrimental impact upon health.

• Agonize

Meaning – Worry or fret
Example – She agonized over her decision to move to a different city.

• Levy

Meaning – Impose
Example – The government levied a tax on all imported products brought into the country.

• Encumbrance

Meaning – Burden
Example – She felt she was being an encumbrance to her hosts, although they said they were happy to have her stay with them.

• Impel

Meaning – Compel or force
Example – Many essential workers were impelled to keep working physically even during the lockdown.

• Commute

Meaning – Travel
Example – I used to commute to college by metro on a regular basis.

• Penalise

Meaning – Punish
Example – The teacher penalised them for chewing gum during lessons.

• Enact

Meaning – Execute or put in force
Example – The law was finally enacted this week after much anticipation.

• Tariff

Meaning – Charge or fee
Example – The money from the tariff charged by the government is used for maintaining the local parks.

When you practice writing an essay for the IELTS Exam, you must first learn how to brainstorm ideas. Even though the sample answers are provided for this, you still need to attempt ideating yourself first before looking at the answers. This will help you to jot down areas of improvement and work towards acquiring the skill to boost your IELTS preparation. So, keep looking at different topics and get yourself familiarized with multiple writing task 2 essay types!