Question : Examine the factors that influence the distribution pattern of the railway network in India
The correct answer is-
Physical and economic factors have influenced the distribution pattern of the Indian Railways
network in the following ways:
i. Northern Plain: Level land, high population density and rich agricultural resources have
favoured development of railways in these plains. However, a large number of river requiring
construction of bridges across their wide river beds posed some obstacles.
ii. Peninsular region and the Himalayan region: it is a hilly terrain. The railway tracks are laid
through low hills, gaps or tunnels. So, it is very difficult to lay the railway lines. The Himalayan
mountainous regions too are not favourable for the construction of railway line due to high relief,
sparse population and lack of economic opportunities.
iii. Desert of Rajasthan: on the sandy plain of western Rajasthan too, it is very difficult to lay
railway lines which has hindered the development of railways.
iv. Swamps of Gujarat, forested tracts of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Orissa and Jharkhand;
these are also not suitable for the development of railways.
v. The contiguous stretch of Sahyadri could be crossed only through gaps or passes. Although the
Konkan railway along the west coast has been developed but it has also faced a number of
problems such as sinking of track in some stretches and landslides
vi. Any other relevant point
