GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 232
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In many countries, the number of people using a bicycle as their main transport is decreasing, even though it is so beneficial.
Why is this so? How can people be encouraged to use bicycles more?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer:
In many parts of the world, the number of individuals using a bicycle as their primary mode of transport is declining despite the bicycle being one of the best modes of transportation available. This essay will outline the reasons for this trend, and then suggest the steps that governments can take to encourage individuals to ride bicycles more.
Individuals opt for transports other than a bicycle for commuting for various reasons. The key barrier, seems like, is the perception that roads and streets are dangerous and extremely uncomfortable for bicycle riders. A case in point is the Australian Social Attitudes Survey, its study on ‘Public Attitudes to Transport’ revealed that 72% of respondents felt that it is a perilous journey for them to cycle on the streets. Apart from that, time is another factor contributing to this phenomenon. In simple words, using a bicycle consumes a substantial amount of time to commute from one place to another. Long-distance commuters, in particular, whose workplaces are located in central parts may face challenges with arriving at their offices on time. Thus, it is completely understandable that the decrease in riding bicycles is happening because of adverse perception of road safety and for the need for faster commuting.
However, governments can adopt various measures to develop this green habit. First and foremost, the mass campaign should be waged to build citizen’s awareness of the positive impact of riding bicycles. Environmental campaigners, for instance, can indicate that exhaust fumes from personal vehicles are causing irreparable damage to our environment, and thus deteriorating our health. Furthermore, states can enact environmental regulations accompanied by organizing competitions to motivate citizens to ride bicycles to work at least once a week. Mumbai epitomizes this solution. Local authorities bound citizens to use bicycles at weekends, cultivating a good habit and making them more responsible for sustainable transport.
In conclusion, even though cycling is a green transport and has numerous health benefits, it is not properly appreciated. Therefore, states ought to carry out proposed actions to urge people to ride bicycles as much as possible.