Describe the physical and economic factors that influenced the distribution pattern of the Indian Railways network.
Answer:
Points to Remember
Answer to be written in Exam
The distribution pattern of the Railway network in the country is influenced by physiographic, economic, and administrative factors from region to region.
Distribution Pattern of railway in India
-
Northern Plains
: The
growth of railways
has been
favored
in these plains
due to the level of terrain, high population density, and abundant agricultural resources
. However, the huge number of rivers that required the construction of bridges across their extensive river beds caused certain challenges.
-
Peninsular region
: In the
hilly terrains of the peninsular region,
railway stretches are built through low hills, gaps, or tunnels
. So, it is very
difficult
to
lay the railway lines.
-
Himalayan mountainous regions
: The Himalayan mountainous regions are
unfavorable for the construction of railway lines
due to high relief, sparse population, and lack of economic opportunities.
-
Desert of Rajasthan
: It is
difficult to construct railway lines on the sandy plain of western Rajasthan
, which has hindered the growth of railways.
- The contiguous stretch of Sahyadri could be crossed only through gaps or passes. Although the Konkan railway along the west coast has been developed it has also f aced a number of problems such as the sinking of trac k in some stretches and landslides.
