Question

Read the following statements about ports carefully and choose the correct option:

1. The ports provide the facilities of loading, unloading and storage of cargo.
2. The importance of ports is judged by the size of its hinterland.
3. The quantity of cargo handled by a port indicates the level of development of its hinterland.
4. Ports are the chief gateways of the world trade.

Options

• only (i), (ii) and (iii) are correct.

• only (i), (iii) and (iv) are correct.

• only (i), (ii) and (iv) are correct.

• only (ii), (iii) and (iv) are correct.

Answer 1

only (i), (iii) and (iv) are correct.

Explanation:

Ports serve as important centres for docking, loading, unloading, and storing cargo. They support smooth navigation through services such as channels, tugs, barges, and labour. The significance of a port depends on the volume of cargo handled and the number of ships it manages, which indicates the level of development of its hinterland. Therefore, statement The importance of ports is judged by the size of its hinterland is incorrect, as the importance of a port is not assessed by the size of its hinterland.