阅读下面的短文,从短文后各题所给的A、B、C、D四个选项中,选出最佳选项。
Every year, millions of tourists from around the globe visit Venice, a city often described as one of the most beautiful in the world. With its winding canals(运河), historic bridges, and stunning architecture, it is easy to understand why so many people want to experience this Italian treasure. However, the city is facing a serious and urgent problem: it is slowly sinking. Scientists estimate that Venice sinks about one to two millimetres every year, and climate change is accelerating(加速) the process through rising sea levels. But that's not the only challenge.
Venice is built on 118 small islands connected by over 400 bridges. Its famous canals act as streets, and locals traditionally travel by boats called "gondolas". However, the constant waves from large ships and motorboats are eroding(侵蚀) the historic buildings. Some buildings are showing signs of structural damage, and conservationists warn that without immediate action, many could be lost forever. The city's government has tried to ban large ships from entering the city centre, but the problem remains complex and politically challenging.
Another major issue is the behaviour of some tourists. During the busy summer seasons, the narrow streets are packed with visitors, making it nearly impossible for
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locals to go about their daily lives. Some tourists treat the city like a theme park rather than a living community, leaving rubbish behind, swimming in the canals despite clear prohibitions, or even walking on historical sites with unsuitable footwear.
In response to these growing concerns, the city has taken significant action. In 2021, Venice introduced a pioneering system to manage the flow of visitors. Tourists now have to book their visit in advance and pay a small entry fee on particularly busy days. The local government hopes this will make tourists more responsible, reduce the pressure on the city's infrastructure(基础设施), and generate(产生) funds for much-needed preservation work.
“Venice is not a museum. It's a living city,” says the mayor(市长). “We want to save it, not just for tourists, but for the Venetians who call this place home. If we lose the residents, we lose the soul of Venice.” His words reflect a growing awareness that sustainable tourism is the only way forward for this unique city.
() 1. According to the passage, what are the two main problems Venice is facing?
A. Air pollution and traffic jams.
B. The sinking city and over-tourism.
C. Rising crime rates and poor economy.
D. Water shortages and building collapses.
() 2. What does the underlined word “packed” in paragraph 3 most likely mean?
A. Crowded with people.
B. Empty and quiet.
C. Clean and organized.
D. Dangerous and dark.
() 3. How is the passage organized?
A. By comparing Venice with other cities.
B. By describing problems in order of severity(严重性) and then presenting a solution.
C. By telling a story about a tourist's experience.
D. By listing historical facts about Venice's past.
() 4. What is the main purpose of this passage?
A. To encourage more tourists to visit Venice.
B. To explain how gondolas are made.
C. To describe the beauty of Venice's architecture.
D. To raise awareness about the threats Venice faces and the actions being taken.