Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Relocating Industries Essay: Coherence Issues
Sample Answer with Feedback

Relocating major factories from cities to the countryside has been suggested as a solution to the housing crisis and high traffic. In my opinion, this is not the most efficient solution because major cities are built around the industries within them. Moreover, it would disrupt the lives of the workers in those cities. A better solution to traffic congestion and housing problems would be to develop new highways and apartment schemes.
Major cities are created as a result of successful businesses and high-performing factories. When companies need more staff, it brings in new people to the city These workers come with families, which in turn creates a demand for more businesses in the area. For example, in Sri Lanka, Colombo became the industrial capital of the country because of the factories that created new job opportunities. This motivated people to take residence in Colombo. The increase in population led to more shopping malls, cafes, and restaurants being opened in Colombo. Therefore, removing industries and their workers from the city would ultimately lead to the deterioration of the area.
On the other hand, at least 1000 people work in any big corporation. Relocating these workers from urban areas would displace the lives they have built in the city. Let's consider an engineer working in the steel industry named Bob as an example. He would have bought a house, invested in the community, and his children would be attending the local school. The facilities available in the countryside would not be comparable to major cities. Thereby uprooting their lives and changing their lifestyles.
Based on these factors, I believe that relocating companies to rural areas from major cities is not an appropriate solution to the problem of traffic and housing. Because, without the big industries, the dynamic of urban areas would change, and within a few years, they would no longer be major cities. On the other hand, relocating workers would drastically change the livelihoods, the workers and their families have built.

    Traffic congestion and housing shortages are major challenges for many cities today. Some propose moving large businesses, industries, and their workers to rural areas as a solution. However, I believe this approach is neither feasible nor effective. A more sustainable alternative would be to improve urban infrastructure and transportation systems rather than displacing economic hubs.

    To begin with, relocating businesses and industries would require extensive resources, planning, and coordination. According to the World Bank, relocating a firm demands careful management and significant resources, often disrupting productivity, profitability, and overall competitiveness, affecting both firms and workers. Additionally, uprooting employees from established urban communities could negatively impact their well-being and quality of life, making relocation an undesirable option for many. Given the financial and logistical burdens, large-scale relocation is unlikely to gain support from businesses or governments.

    Moreover, this strategy fails to address the root causes of traffic congestion and housing shortages. These issues stem from rapid urbanization, population growth, and inadequate infrastructure in cities. Moving some firms and workers would not resolve these fundamental problems but instead shift them elsewhere. Instead of relocating businesses, cities should focus on expanding public transportation and enforcing zoning regulations to create more efficient living spaces. Additionally, relocating businesses to rural areas could introduce new challenges, such as environmental degradation, social disruption, and economic disparities.

    In conclusion, addressing traffic congestion and housing shortages requires comprehensive urban planning and investment in infrastructure rather than relocating businesses and workers to rural areas. Thus, I think that developing smart cities with sustainable solutions can improve urban conditions while minimizing negative impacts on rural areas. By focusing on sustainable development and effective governance, cities can create long-term solutions that enhance livability while fostering balanced growth between urban and rural regions.