Which one of the following statements with regard to the Indian Railwa...
- Indian Railways manages the fourth-largest railway network in the world by size after USA, China and Russia.
- The railway network in India is well-connected except in the Himalayan Regions of the country.
- In India, there are 17 railway zones at present, including the Kolkata Metro.
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Which one of the following statements with regard to the Indian Railwa...
Indian Railways: Largest Railway Network in the World
The correct answer is option 'D', which states that at present, India has the largest railway network in the world. This statement is not correct. Let's examine the reasons why.
1. Historical Development of Indian Railways:
The Indian rail network has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The development of railways in India started during British colonial rule. The first railway line was opened in 1853 between Mumbai and Thane. Over the years, the rail network expanded to connect various parts of the country. However, this expansion did not solely occur along the Konkan coast, as mentioned in option 'A'.
2. Railway Density in the Himalayan Region:
Option 'B' states that there is very low density of railway lines in the Himalayan region. This is a correct statement. The challenging terrain of the Himalayas makes it difficult to construct railway lines, resulting in a lower density compared to other regions of India. The focus in this region is primarily on improving road connectivity rather than rail connectivity.
3. Dense Railway Network in North Indian Plains:
Option 'C' correctly states that the north Indian plains have a dense network of railway lines. The north Indian plains, which include states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, etc., have a high population density and are agriculturally and industrially significant. Therefore, the railway network in this region is extensive to cater to the transportation needs of these areas.
4. Largest Railway Network in the World:
Contrary to option 'D', India does not currently have the largest railway network in the world. As of now, China holds the title for having the largest railway network in terms of route length. China's network spans over 139,000 kilometers, while India's network covers around 68,000 kilometers. However, it is important to note that Indian Railways is still one of the largest and busiest railway networks globally.
In conclusion, option 'D' is the incorrect statement among the given options. While the Indian railway network has indeed been developed throughout various regions, it is not the largest in the world.