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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should governments provide free public transportation?

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Task 2 Topic:"Should governments provide free public transportation?"

Model Answer:

In recent times, there has been a growing debate surrounding whether or not governments should provide free public transportation. Some argue that this would lead to improved accessibility and environmental benefits, while others contend that it may result in an increase in public spending with little return on investment. In this essay, I will examine both sides of the argument and conclude by offering my own perspective on the matter.

On one hand, advocates for free public transportation assert that it would significantly improve accessibility to essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. Many people in urban areas rely heavily on public transport due to factors like cost, traffic congestion, or limited vehicle ownership. If public transportation is made available at no cost, it could potentially increase its usage and promote social equity by enabling individuals from all walks of life to have equal access to resources. Additionally, free public transit might also serve as an incentive for governments to expand their networks and improve the quality of service, ultimately benefitting the entire community.

On the other hand, critics of free public transport argue that it would place a substantial financial burden on taxpayers. Governments already allocate a significant portion of their budgets towards maintaining existing transport infrastructure, and providing free services would likely require even more funding. Some experts suggest that the revenue generated from fares helps subsidize the cost of running public transportation systems, so eliminating this source could lead to increased spending on alternative means of support. Moreover, if a country has an already overstretched budget, allocating additional funds for free transport may not be feasible or prudent.

Furthermore, there is the concern that free public transport might not necessarily encourage sustainable practices. Although it could reduce the number of private vehicles on the road and lower carbon emissions in the short term, it may also lead to an increase in overall usage due to its accessibility. Consequently, this could negate any potential environmental benefits in the long run.

In conclusion, while there are strong arguments for providing free public transportation, particularly in terms of social equity and accessibility, it is essential to carefully consider the financial implications and environmental consequences. Governments should explore innovative funding models, such as partnerships with private companies or advertising revenue, to ensure the sustainability of such a policy. Ultimately, the decision to implement free public transport must be weighed against other pressing societal needs and priorities.

Score according to IELTS Scoring Standards:

Overall, this answer demonstrates an excellent understanding of the task requirements and provides a well-structured, coherent response that thoroughly addresses both sides of the argument. The essay presents a logical progression of ideas and includes relevant examples and evidence to support each viewpoint. As such, I would assign a Band Score of 9 for this model answer.

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