Traffic Problems | Writing for Academic IELTS PDF Download

This is a traffic problems essay and the specific topic is the taxing of car drivers in order to reduce these problems. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of introducing such a policy to tackle the issue. This question is very clear, and it does not specifically ask you for an opinion. You just need to look at both sides of the issue. The logical way to answer it would be to discuss each side in a different paragraph.

Here is in the question:
Q. In order to solve traffic problems, governments should tax private car owners heavily and use the money to improve public transportation. What are the advantages and disadvantages of such a solution?

Sample Answer:

• Traffic congestion in many cities around the world is severe. One possible solution to this problem is to impose heavy taxes on car drivers and use this money to make public transport better. This essay will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of such a measure.
• One of the first benefits of such a measure is that the heavy taxes would discourage car owners from using their cars because it would become very expensive to drive. This would mean that they would begin to make use of public transport instead, thus reducing traffic problems and pollution as well. Another benefit would be that much more use would be made of public transport if it was improved. It is often the case that public transport in cities is very poor. For example, we often see old buses and trains that people would rather not use. High taxes would generate enough money to make the necessary changes.
• Nevertheless, there are drawbacks to such a solution. First and foremost, this would be a heavy burden on the car drivers. At present, taxes are already high for a lot of people, and so further taxes would only mean less money at the end of the month for most people who may have no choice but to drive every day. In addition, this type of tax would likely be set at a fixed amount. This would mean that it would hit those with less money harder, whilst the rich could likely afford it. It is therefore not a fair tax.
• To conclude, this solution is worth considering to improve the current situation, but there are advantages and disadvantages of introducing such a policy.