Why are the means of transportation and communication called the lifelines of a nation and its economy?

Means of transport and communication are called the lifelines of a nation for the following reasons:

(i)Roads can traverse comparatively more dissected and undulating topography and can negotiate higher gradients of slopes and as such can traverse mountains such as the Himalayas.

(ii)Railways are the principal mode of transportation for freight and passengers in India. Railways also make it possible to conduct multifarious activities like business, sightseeing, pilgrimage along with transportation of goods over longer distances.

(iii)Waterways are the cheapest means of transport. They are most suitable for carrying heavy and bulky goods. It is a fuel-efficient and environment friendly mode of transport.

(iv)Airways can cover very difficult terrains like high mountains, dreary deserts, dense forests and also long oceanic stretches with great ease.

(v)Long distance communication is far easier without physical movement of the communicator or receiver.