Question
Examine the distributional pattern of railways in India.
Solution
The distribution of railway network in India has been influenced by several factors. Now railways are treated as a means of overall development of the nation. Therefore development of railway transportation is guided by the principle of regional development. The distribution pattern is as under:
1. North Indian Plains : This region has very dense network of railways from Amritsar to Howrah. This is a plain area which is very much suitable for the construction of railways. This area is highly densely populated and developed in agriculture and industry.
2. Peninsular Plateau : The whole area is hilly and plateau terrain which hinders the development of railways. The population density is also moderate.
3. Coastal Plains : There is a long route on the eastern coastal plains but such facilities are not found on the western coast.
4. Himalayan Region: The rugged terrain and hilly topography and backward economy are the factors which are responsible for sparse rail network in this region.
