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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

In today's modern world, the allocation of government funds is a crucial decision that impacts the development of infrastructure. Some people argue that governments should prioritize spending on railways over roads. I strongly agree with this statement due to the numerous benefits that railways offer.

Firstly, investing in railways can significantly reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. For instance, in countries like Japan and Germany, efficient railway systems have led to a decrease in the number of cars on the roads, resulting in decreased air pollution and less traffic. This shows that railways can offer a sustainable solution to environmental issues caused by excessive road usage.

Secondly, railways can provide a cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation for the public. When governments invest in railways, it can lead to faster and more reliable transportation, benefiting both commuters and businesses. For example, the high-speed rail network in China has considerably reduced travel times between major cities, making it a preferred choice for many people.

Moreover, developing railways can stimulate economic growth. By connecting various regions and cities, railways can facilitate the movement of goods and people, leading to increased business opportunities and tourism. A prime illustration of this is the Eurostar train connecting the UK to mainland Europe, which has enhanced trade and tourism between these regions.

In conclusion, prioritizing investment in railways over roads is a wise decision for governments due to its positive impact on reducing traffic congestion, providing efficient transportation, and stimulating economic growth. Therefore, I firmly support the idea of allocating more funds to the development of railways.

Model Essay #2:

Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

In my opinion, I agree that governments should allocate more funds to railways rather than roads. There are several reasons to support this viewpoint.

Firstly, investing in railways can significantly reduce traffic congestion and pollution in urban areas. For example, in many cities, traffic congestion has become a major issue, leading to increased air pollution and longer commute times for individuals. By improving and expanding railway networks, more people can be encouraged to use public transportation, thus alleviating traffic congestion and reducing air pollution.

Secondly, railways are often a more efficient and sustainable mode of transportation for both passengers and goods. For instance, trains can transport a large number of people and goods over long distances with minimal environmental impact compared to the use of individual cars or trucks. This can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption, leading to a more sustainable environment.

Moreover, developing railway infrastructure can also stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities. When governments invest in railways, it leads to the development of new railway lines, stations, and maintenance facilities, which in turn creates employment opportunities in construction, engineering, and operation sectors. Additionally, improved connectivity through railways can boost trade and tourism, thus contributing to economic development.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that governments should prioritize investment in railways over roads due to the numerous benefits it offers in terms of reducing congestion, lowering pollution, promoting sustainability, and stimulating economic growth. Therefore, allocating more funds to railways can lead to a more efficient, sustainable, and prosperous transportation system for the future.

Model Essay #3:

Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

I believe that governments should allocate their funds to the development of roads rather than railways. There are several reasons to support this perspective.

Firstly, improving road infrastructure can bring more immediate and widespread benefits to a larger population. For example, in many rural areas, the lack of proper roads hinders access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets. By investing in road construction and maintenance, governments can improve accessibility and connectivity for rural communities, thus enhancing their quality of life.

Secondly, roads offer more flexibility and accessibility compared to railways. Unlike railways, which have fixed routes and schedules, roads can reach remote areas and provide door-to-door transportation options. This flexibility is especially vital for emergency services, such as ambulances and fire trucks, as well as for businesses that rely on efficient transportation of goods to and from various locations.

Furthermore, investing in road infrastructure can also contribute to job creation and economic development. Building and maintaining roads require a significant workforce, which can create employment opportunities, especially in rural and underdeveloped areas. Additionally, improved road connectivity can boost trade and tourism, leading to economic growth and prosperity for local communities.

In conclusion, while railways have their own advantages, I believe that governments should prioritize the development of roads over railways due to their broader accessibility, immediate impact on rural communities, and potential for job creation and economic development. Therefore, allocating more funds to road infrastructure can lead to improved accessibility, connectivity, and economic opportunities for a larger population.

Model Essay #4:

Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

While investing in railways is important, I believe that governments should allocate funds to both railways and roads for comprehensive infrastructure development. Both modes of transport serve distinct purposes and have their own benefits.

Firstly, roads are essential for providing connectivity to areas where railways may not reach. In many rural and remote regions, roads are the primary mode of transportation, facilitating accessibility for communities, businesses, and emergency services. Therefore, investing in road infrastructure is crucial for ensuring equitable access and connectivity across diverse geographical landscapes.

Additionally, roads offer flexibility and convenience for individual travelers and businesses. Unlike railways, which operate on fixed routes and schedules, roads provide the freedom to travel to specific locations, making them vital for last-mile connectivity and personal mobility. This flexibility is particularly important for industries such as logistics and delivery services.

Furthermore, investing in road infrastructure can contribute to job creation and economic development. The construction and maintenance of roads create employment opportunities and support various industries such as construction, engineering, and transportation. Improved road networks also attract investment and foster economic growth by facilitating the movement of goods and services.

In conclusion, while railways play a crucial role in sustainable and long-distance transportation, it is essential for governments to allocate funds to both railways and roads. Both modes of transport complement each other and cater to different transportation needs, ensuring comprehensive connectivity, mobility, and economic development. Therefore, a balanced investment in both railways and roads is necessary for holistic infrastructure development.

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