Environment - Traffic Congestion

1. Traffic congestion is the build up of traffic which prevents efficient movement.

2. Traffic congestion is one of the most significant problems faced by towns and cities today.

3. Traffic congestion causes billions of hours to be lost by drivers and passengers on Britain’s roads.

4. It has occurred because more people own cars and travel to their places of work.

5. Traffic congestion causes problems such as air pollution, noise pollution, parking problems.

6. It also causes accidents and dangers to pedestrians due to the large numbers of vehicles passing through towns and cities.

7. Public transport, including trains, trams and buses, can relieve traffic congestion and reduce air pollution.

8. Railways use less land than roads and one train can carry hundreds of passengers.

9. Buses also make more efficient use of fuel than cars, although both trains and buses do still contribute to pollution.

10. Trams have been introduced in some towns and cities.

11. They help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution by moving large numbers of people effectively and efficiently.

12. Trams are usually electrically operated so they reduce noise and air pollution.

13. Tram travel is comfortable, smooth and reliable as well as being safer than car travel.

14. Many people are put off using public transport because of the high costs and the fact that it is not always reliable.

15. Some areas have very limited services.

16. This makes it impossible for travellers to get to their destinations at appropriate times.

17. Many different schemes have been introduced in towns and cities to reduce traffic congestion.

18. Park and Ride schemes have been implemented.

19. More by-passes and ring roads have been built, but this is not always popular because of the environmental impact.

20. Some towns and cities have banned cars from the centres, or imposed a congestion charge.

21. Pedestrian zones have been introduced to provide a pleasanter, and safer environment for shopping.

22. Pedestrian zones improve the air quality.

23. They reduce both noise and air pollution.

24. A great deal of traffic congestion in the UK is caused because cars are used for short journeys.

25. Cycling is often the simplest and quickest way of getting around town.

26. It also improves levels of fitness, helps the environment and saves money.

27. Some areas are investing in designated cycle paths and routes.

28. Some even allow people to hire bicycles from a central pool.

29. What is really needed is for more people to use public transport.

30. This would involve investment to make it cheaper, easier and more convenient for people to use.