Use of English

Public Transport Matters

In many cities, public transport is no longer seen as a luxury but as a (0) NECESSARY part of daily life. When buses and trains run well, people can get to work on time and avoid spending hours stuck in traffic. One major advantage is that it helps to (1) .......... down air pollution. If more commuters leave their cars at home, fewer exhaust fumes are released into the atmosphere. Public transport can also (2) .......... a difference to people’s budgets, because a monthly pass is often cheaper than paying for fuel, parking and repairs. However, for a system to be successful, it must be reliable. If services are frequently delayed or cancelled, passengers quickly (3) .......... patience and return to driving. Cities also need to (4) .......... in modern vehicles and safe stations, so that people feel comfortable using them at any time of day. Another key point is access. A network that only serves the city centre leaves many residents (5) .......... out, especially those living in suburbs. Finally, good information matters: clear signs and apps help travellers (6) .......... up with changes and choose the best route. In the long (7) .........., improving public transport benefits everyone, even those who rarely use it, because it reduces congestion and makes streets safer. That is why governments should (8) .......... public transport a priority.