Question

Describe the merits of rail transport.

Under what conditions Railway Transport is most suitable?

Answer 1

1. Larger capacity: Railways can carry a much larger quantity of goods than motor vehicles. More waggons can be added to handle a larger volume of traffic. Therefore, railway transport is more suitable for carrying bulky and heavy goods.
2. Dependable: Railways are more reliable because they follow fixed routes, have regular time schedules and are available throughout the year. Rail transport remains relatively unaffected by rains, floods, fog, etc.
3. Safety: Railways are a safer mode of transport. Goods are protected from sun, rain, snow, etc. There are also fewer breakdowns and accidents.
4. Economical: Rail transport is a cheaper means of carrying bulky goods over long distances.
5. High speed: Railways are a faster mode of transport than motor vehicles. A train moves on specially laid tracks that are free from any obstruction. The greater speed of railways makes up for the time lost due to loading and unloading at terminals and other delays.
6. Public welfare: Railways are the largest public sector undertaking in India. Indian Railways provide concessional rates in deserving cases. Defence personnel and public servants are given special privileges by railways.
7. Better organisation: Railway transport is well organised. There are fixed rates and time schedules. As a result, railways provide more certain, regular and uniform services than other modes of transport.
8. Fixed rates: The freight rates charged by railways are fixed and do not change frequently.

Answer 2

1. For carrying goods and people over long distances.
2. For transporting bulky and durable goods.
3. For transportation in the plains.
4. When speed and cost of transportation are important.
5. For safe transportation of goods.