It has been controversial whether a policy imposing extra freight or tariff on drivers who use congested roads during peak time is helpful for alleviating congestion. Some people say that such policy doesn't help alleviating congestion, citing that drivers are using the congested road because it is the most efficient route for them. In other words, drivers will still use the road as they usually have no alternatives. However, I believe that the policy will be helpful for alleviating congestion; hence, I agree with the policy for following reasons.
First of all, not all drivers are using the congested roads because they have no alternative. Once the freight is determined, drivers will analyze their opportunity costs by comparing the freight and the costs incurred by rerouting. Drivers who believes rerouting is cheaper than paying the freight will reroute. In brief, the policy will distribute the congestion to entire traffic system in the region.
In addition, the freight can be another financial source for community. Local goverments can use the collection either to expand existing roads or to build new roads. As a consequnce, community members and local goverments can expect to extricate the traffic congestion problem. Therefore, the policy can help local community.
All things considered, the policy is helpful not only for reducing traffic congestion but also for local govenment's financial stability. People who do not have options other than using the congested roads will untimately be benefitted by expansion and building of new roads supported by the collected fund. In this sense, I'm strongly supportive of the policy. |