Band 7+: In many cities, the use of private cars is causing significant environmental and traffic problems. Some people suggest that the government should reduce the cost of public transport and increase taxes on car ownership. Why is this happening and what can be done about it?

In recent times, the usage of individual cars has increased, which can eventually result in causing traffic congestion and pollution. The valid reasons and the solutions by the government as well as public will be discussed in further paragraphs.

At first glance, there are some valid reasons contributing to this problem. The predominant reason for using individual car rather than public transport is none other than being able to follow one’s own routine without relying on others. A private vehicle can provide flexibility of choosing time according to one’s will and also provide sufficient area to sit. Unlike public transport, a person can select time of departure and reach his destination in a minimal time. Therefore, this can save a lot of valuable time and comfort. Additionally, there are some genuine reasons of using private vehicles, as some public modes of transportation may not be available or connected to remote areas. People, who live in those areas, do not have any option apart from using their own vehicles. These two reasons can increase the number of vehicles on the roads, eventually contributing to a high emission of Carbon in the environment and resulting in noise as well as air pollution.

While discussing about the solutions of given problem, precautions taken by the government as well as voluntary initiatives of an individual are equally important. The government can introduce better connections of public transports in remote areas by increasing number of routes and vehicles therefore, the commuters can get proper seat. This can decrease number of private vehicles on the road and reduce traffic congestion. In addition to that, car-pooling should be implemented by citizens, in which they can also share a ride of their individual cars with others who are going in a same direction. This will efficiently utilize time, save a lot of fuel and decrease the number of vehicles on the road. This will also reduce the emission of carbon in the environment and control pollution.

In conclusion, the increasing use of private cars is mainly driven by their convenience and the limited availability of public transport in some areas. By improving public transportation and encouraging car-pooling, governments and individuals can reduce traffic congestion and pollution significantly.