question_answer

Why do roadways have an edge over railways? Explain four reasons. Or What is meant by road density? Describe any four advantages roadways have over railways.

Answer:

                  Road density is the ratio of the length of an areas total road network (this includes all types of road) to the area's land area. Advantages of roadways over railways are (i) Construction cost of roads is much lower than railway lines. (ii) Roads can traverse comparatively more dissected and undulating topography, as well as negotiating higher gradients of slopes, like in mountainous areas. (iii) Roadways provide door-to-door service, thus lowering the cost of loading and unloading. Thus they act as a feeder to other modes of transport, as they provide a link between railway stations, air and sea ports. (iv) Road transport is economical in transportation of few persons and relatively smaller amount of goods over short distances.