Band 8 In many cities, traffic congestion is a serious problem. What are the causes of this issue, and what measures could be taken to solve it? Solved

Traffic congestion plagues numerous cities, a persistent issue that disrupts daily life and economic efficiency. This stems primarily from an overreliance on private vehicles and inadequate urban planning. Below, I shall explore these causes and propose viable solutions to alleviate the problem.

The principal cause is the proliferation of personal cars. Rising incomes have enabled more households to own vehicles, often multiple per family, overwhelming road capacity. In my country, urban centres designed decades ago now struggle to accommodate this surge, resulting in gridlock during peak hours. This dependence perpetuates a cycle where public transport is neglected, exacerbating congestion further.

Another key factor is deficient infrastructure. Many cities suffer from narrow roads, poorly synchronised traffic signals, and insufficient bypasses. For instance, in a major city I visited, ongoing construction projects frequently reduced lanes, intensifying delays. Some might argue population growth bears responsibility, which holds merit, yet outdated planning remains the core issue. Modern demands simply outstrip antiquated designs.

To address this, enhancing public transport stands paramount. Efficient, affordable systems—such as expanded metro networks—could entice commuters away from cars. In my region, a recent rail project significantly reduced road traffic. Another measure involves implementing congestion charges, a proven tactic in cities like Stockholm, where drivers pay to enter busy zones. This discourages unnecessary trips and funds infrastructure upgrades.

In conclusion, excessive car use and substandard planning drive urban congestion, but robust transit options and financial deterrents offer relief. It is concerning that cities continue to choke under avoidable strain—proactive steps are long overdue.