How should the government distribute its expenses has always been a major issue of public concern. It is even more complicated in the field of public transportation, as railway construction and road construction rival against each other for significant investment from public funds. While both would bring about considerable benefits, I believe allocating more resources to railways is a more advantageous option.
Investing in railways yields greater benefits than focusing on roads. One notable edge is the enhancement of local economic development. Railways enable the transportation of goods over long distances efficiently, allowing commodities to be delivered not only faster but also at a lower cost compared to road transport using lorries. This heightened efficiency and reduced transportation expenses are vital for the economic progress of any region. For instance, the remarkable economic growth experienced by China in the 21st century is largely attributed to the establishment of an extensive national railway network, which has facilitated the expansion of commercial activities across vast areas at relatively low costs. It is this railway network that makes online purchasing possible, giving birth to barons like Taobao and Tianmao, the market values of which have exceeded billions of dollars.
While some may contend that railway construction involves remarkable expenses and may argue for the prioritization of road development, this perspective is flawed. The substantial investment in railway infrastructure correspondingly lead to significant public projects, resulting in the creation of numerous job opportunities, including thousands of workers building the railway and large number of companies to maintain the function of railways. This, in turn, would reduce the local unemployment rate, decrease the public expenditure needed for unemployment subsidies, and strengthen the cohesion of the society. These social benefits, along with the aforementioned economic advantages, far outweigh the increased financial commitment required for railway development.
In conclusion, it is advisable for governments to allocate more funding to railway construction rather than to road development, as it presents extensive social and economic advantages.