30. Transportation

1. What's the most popular means of transportation in your hometown?

How do you go to work or school?

What's the most popular means of transportation in your hometown?

I can safely say that the majority of people here get around by subway. The main reason is that you don't have to worry about a possibility of getting stuck in a traffic jam. Also, trains run frequently, therefore people get anywhere in time even during peak hours. In addition, this mode of transport is relatively inexpensive, reliable and really comfortable.

Do you prefer public transportation or private transportation?

I prefer getting around in a private vehicle because I don't like to be dependent on other people. I like the idea that I can stop whenever and wherever I want. I can take as much stuff with me as need. I can speak loudly and sing. So, although many of my friends say that the amount of money I spent to purchase my car could generally finance public transit fees for years, I'm not planning to switch to mass transit.

2. Will you use public transport more in the future?

Well, I'd love to 'cause I think this is the only way to fight global warming and environmental pollution, but taking into account the current situation in the world, I don't think I will. In my opinion, mass transit and social distancing are incompatible, especially during rush hour. And even if I do my best to keep a safe distance, wear a mask and avoid touching surfaces, the risk of catching COVID-19 on trains and buses is quite high because this disease is highly contagious. I just don't want to jeopardize my health. I think I won't use public transport unless absolutely necessary. I will drive, walk or cycle more.

3. Are there any traffic problems in your area?

Oh, in my city, I guess, it is traffic congestion that is the major problem. During rush hours the city centre and the main roads are blocked by vehicles which move so slowly that it seems they don't move at all.

4. How would you improve transport in your town or area?

How would you reduce traffic problems in your area?

How do you think public transport could be improved?

Firstly, it is absolutely imperative that buses be made to stop at designated bus stops and have scheduled routes. The problem is that having spotted a person flagging down, bus drivers stop wherever they want as they seem to feel kings of the road. Such sudden and abrupt stopping of buses often causes minor rear end collisions and tailbacks as there's barely enough room to let other vehicles pass and everybody is in a hurry. It would also be great if roads were mended because dodging potholes is what drivers have to constantly do instead of moving smoothly and uninterruptedly. And this again makes cars move slowly and leads to car accidents.

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