Unit-III

Chapter-7:TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

 EXERCISES

1. Choose the right answers of the following from the given options.

(i) In how many zones has the Indian Railways system been divided?

(a) 9 (c) 16

(b) 12 (d) 14

Answer: (c) 16.

(ii) On which river and between which two places does the National Water Way No. 1 lie?

(a) The Brahmaputra, Sadiya-Dhubri

(b) The Ganga, Haldia-Allahabad

(c) West Coast Canal, Kottapuram to Kollam

Answer: (b) The Ganga, Haldia-Allahabad.

(iii) In which of the following year, the first radio programme was broadcast?

(a) 1911 (c) 1927

(b) 1936 (d) 1923

Answer:  (d) 1923.

2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words.

(i) Which activity does transportation convey? Name three major modes of transportation.

Answer: Transportation conveys the movement of people and goods from one place to another. 

        Three major modes are road, rail, and air, each offering varying speed, capacity, and cost.

(ii) Discuss advantages and disadvantages of pipeline transportation.

Answer: Pipeline Advantages: Efficient, cost-effective for large volumes, minimal environmental impact, low risk of accidents, weatherproof.  

Disadvantages: High initial cost, inflexible routes, vulnerable to sabotage or leaks, potential environmental damage if spills occur.

(iii) What do you mean by ‘communication’?

Answer: "Communication" is the sharing of information, ideas, and feelings between two or more individuals or groups. It involves sending and receiving messages through various channels (words, gestures, etc.) aimed at creating understanding and meaning. Essentially, it's the bridge that connects us.

3. Answer the following questions in about 150 words.

(i) Which are the chief means of transportation in India? Discuss the factors affecting their development.

Answer: India boasts a diverse transportation landscape, with three chief modes playing crucial roles:

1. Railways: The lifeline of the nation, Indian Railways is the world's fourth-largest network, carrying over 8.8 billion passengers annually. Its advantages include affordability, fuel efficiency, and vast reach, even in remote areas. However, challenges like overcrowding, aging infrastructure, and operational inefficiencies hinder its full potential. 

2. Roads: India's extensive road network, spanning over 5.5 million kilometers, is the second-largest globally. It provides door-to-door connectivity and flexibility for both passengers and goods. However, congestion, poor maintenance, and road safety concerns remain major drawbacks. 

3. Air Transport: India's aviation sector is booming, with passenger traffic doubling in the past decade. It offers speed and convenience, particularly for long distances. However, high costs and limited airport infrastructure restrict accessibility for many. 

Factors influencing their development include:

*Government policies: Investments in infrastructure development, privatization, and technological advancements play a crucial role.

*Economic growth: Rising incomes and increased trade volume drive demand for efficient transportation.

*Technological advancements: Innovations in areas like electric vehicles, high-speed railways, and drones can revolutionize the sector.

*Environmental concerns: Sustainable transportation practices like electrification and modal shift are gaining importance.
    
    These chief modes, along with emerging trends like multimodal transport and hyperloop technology, are shaping India's transportation landscape, aiming for a future that is efficient, inclusive, and sustainable.

(ii) Give a detailed account of the development of railways in India and highlight their importance.

Answer: Chugging Through Time: The Development and Importance of Indian Railways

    The story of Indian Railways is one of iron tracks weaving through history, forever altering the nation's landscape and destiny. Let's take a whistle-stop tour:

Early Tracks:

*1837: The first railway, Red Hill Railway, chugs to life near Chennai, hauling granite for road construction.

*1853: The "Grand Trunk Line" opens, connecting Bombay (Mumbai) to Thane, marking the birth of passenger rail travel.

*Mid-19th century: Rapid expansion under British rule, connecting major cities and ports, fostering trade and troop movement.

Colonial Legacy:

*Focus on freight: Primarily used for transporting raw materials and finished goods to serve colonial interests.

*Uneven development: Certain regions prioritized, neglecting others, creating disparities that persist today.

*Technological advancements: Introduction of steam locomotives, improved tracks, and expansion of the network.

Post-Independence Progress:

*Nationalization (1951): Indian Railways brought under unified control, aiming for equitable development and public service.

*Diversification: Focus on passenger travel, introduction of iconic trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi Express.

*Modernization: Electrification of tracks, introduction of high-speed trains like Vande Bharat Express, and ongoing infrastructure upgrades.

Importance of Indian Railways:

*Lifeline of the nation: Connecting over 7,000 stations across 19 zones, serving millions daily.

*Economic engine: Facilitating trade, tourism, and industrial growth, contributing significantly to GDP.

*Social equalizer: Providing affordable travel, connecting remote areas, and bridging regional divides.

*Cultural icon: Woven into the fabric of Indian life, inspiring countless stories, songs, and films.

Challenges and the Road Ahead:

*Aging infrastructure: Requires sustained investment for modernization and safety upgrades.

*Operational inefficiencies: Addressing overcrowding, delays, and financial losses.

*Environmental impact: Moving towards sustainable practices like electrification and cleaner fuels.

    Indian Railways continue to chug forward, carrying the hopes and dreams of a nation. As they evolve, they promise to not only connect destinations but also build a brighter future for India.

(iii) Describe the role of roads in the economic development of India.

Answer: India's extensive road network, stretching over 5.5 million kilometers, isn't just asphalt and concrete – it's a vital artery pumping life into the nation's economic growth. Here's how:

Efficiency and Reach: Roads offer door-to-door connectivity, allowing goods to reach markets faster and cheaper compared to railways. This reduces logistics costs and improves supply chain efficiency, boosting competitiveness for Indian businesses.

Boosting Trade and Commerce: Improved connectivity links agricultural producers with urban markets, expanding market access and reducing post-harvest losses. Furthermore, better rural road infrastructure facilitates the movement of manufactured goods from factories to consumers, spurring industrial growth.

Employment Generation: Road construction and maintenance create millions of direct and indirect jobs, contributing to poverty alleviation and rural development. This increased disposable income further fuels consumer spending, stimulating economic activity.

Inclusive Growth: By connecting remote areas to urban centers, roads provide better access to education, healthcare, and other essential services. This bridges the rural-urban divide, promoting inclusive and equitable development across the country.

Tourism and Investment: Good roads open up scenic destinations and historical sites, boosting tourism and generating revenue. Improved connectivity also attracts foreign investments, creating new industries and job opportunities.

    However, challenges remain. Traffic congestion, poor road quality, and safety concerns hinder the full potential of this crucial infrastructure. Investing in road upgrading, intelligent traffic management systems, and safety measures is crucial to unlock the true economic power of India's roads.

So, the next time you see a truck rumbling down the highway, remember – it's not just carrying cargo, it's carrying the hopes and dreams of a nation on the road to economic prosperity.

                                                  Project

Find out the facilities that Indian Railways provide to the passengers.

Answer:


Answer Type By: Himashree Bora.