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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Should the government impose a heavy tax on private car owners to improve the public transportation system to reduce the traffic problem in many cities? What are the advantages and disadvantages of such a solution? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Should the government impose a heavy tax on private car owners to improve the public transportation system to reduce the traffic problem in many cities?

In many cities, traffic congestion is a major problem, and some people believe that imposing a heavy tax on private car owners could help improve the public transportation system and reduce traffic. This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this solution.

On the one hand, implementing a heavy tax on private car owners could lead to significant benefits. Firstly, the revenue generated from the tax could be used to enhance the public transportation system, such as building new train lines, improving bus services, and developing cycling infrastructure. This could encourage more people to use public transport, which would ultimately reduce the number of private cars on the roads, easing traffic congestion. Additionally, the tax could also incentivize car owners to consider alternative modes of transportation, such as carpooling or cycling, further reducing traffic.

On the other hand, there are several drawbacks to imposing a heavy tax on private car owners. Firstly, it could disproportionately affect low-income individuals who rely on their cars for transportation, potentially making it more challenging for them to afford the tax. Moreover, if the public transportation system does not improve significantly, people may feel unfairly penalized for owning a car without viable alternatives. This could lead to public discontent and resistance to the tax, ultimately undermining its effectiveness.

In conclusion, while imposing a heavy tax on private car owners could potentially improve public transportation and reduce traffic congestion, it is essential to consider the potential disadvantages. Any such measure should be accompanied by substantial improvements to public transportation and considerations for those who may be disproportionately affected by the tax.

Word count: 263

Model Essay #2:

Should the government impose a heavy tax on private car owners to improve the public transportation system to reduce the traffic problem in many cities?

In many cities, traffic congestion is a pressing issue, and the proposal to impose a heavy tax on private car owners to improve public transportation and reduce traffic has sparked debate. This essay will examine the advantages and disadvantages of this solution from a different perspective.

Advocates of imposing a heavy tax on private car owners argue that it could bring about positive outcomes. The increased revenue from the tax could be channeled into enhancing public transportation, leading to improved services, expanded routes, and more frequent schedules. This, in turn, could entice more individuals to opt for public transport, subsequently alleviating traffic congestion. Moreover, reducing the number of private cars on the roads could contribute to environmental benefits by curbing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Conversely, there are significant drawbacks to this proposal. A heavy tax on private car owners might disproportionately impact individuals who rely on their cars due to limited access to public transportation, particularly in suburban or rural areas. Moreover, if the public transportation system fails to undergo substantial improvements, the tax could be perceived as punitive without providing viable alternatives, leading to public resentment and opposition.

In conclusion, while the idea of imposing a heavy tax on private car owners to improve public transportation and alleviate traffic congestion has its merits, careful consideration must be given to the potential disadvantages. It is crucial to ensure that any such measure is accompanied by tangible improvements in public transportation accessibility and affordability, as well as considerations for individuals who may face challenges in adapting to alternative modes of transport.

Word count: 242

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