It is argued that offering free public transport all times is the effective way for the government to reduce traffic congestion. Although it is a good decision, but I do not believe that it is the best or only solution in this issue.
On the one hand, making free public transport will encourage private vehicle owners leave their car at home. Many commuters choose drive because public transports are expensive and inconvenient. If buses and trains were free, many people could save money for parking and tickets. As a result, a larger number of residents would switch to free transportation, which could decrease the number of vehicles on the roads and ease traffic congestion. Moreover, free transportation system could benefit low- income individuals by making travel more affordable. In addition, rising inflation and increasing fuel prices have drastically increased the living expenses especially in the big cities are becoming worst, free public transportation would be a welcome step. It would not only increase people’s money pockets but also provide them with a cleaner environment.
Despite the benefits of free public transportation, I believe that other ways are better suited for traffic problems. In many cities, traffic systems are overcrowded on the roads during peak hours. If services are become free without improving capacity, buses and trains would be become more crowded and less efficient. In addition, governments should invest in better infrastructure, such as wider roads, dedicated bus lanes and improving cycling facilities. They can also introduce some measures like congestion charges and stricter parking regulations to discourage unnecessary car use. Another method that can be more effective is to improve parking facilities. A lot of people are forced to park on the roads due to the lack of proper parking facilities. There is an innovative solution recently adopted by local authorities is that different work timings for different industries and offices. This would mean that less people are travelling together at the same time and thus less traffic.
In conclusion, although free public transport could help reduce the number of cars on the road, I disagree that it the best solution to traffic congestion. A combination of both improved traffic congestion and urban planning would be a more effective approach.