Question 1 of 21intermediate💡 UnderstandLong Answer5 marks

What is physical infrastructure, and how has it transformed over the years in India?

Correct Answer

Physical infrastructure refers to the vast network of tangible structures built to keep our cities and villages functioning.

It includes transportation systems like roads, bridges, and railways; utilities like electricity and water pipelines; communication networks like internet and telephone lines; and energy infrastructure like windmills, solar parks, and oil pipelines.

Over the years, India has witnessed phenomenal growth in physical infrastructure — from the British introducing railways in 1853 to India now having the fourth-largest railway system in the world.

India has developed the second-largest road network globally, 159 airports, 12 major ports, metro systems in 23 cities, and widespread communication infrastructure connecting millions through mobile and internet services.

Exercise: Introduction | Q: 1 | (Page Page 1)
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Explanation

The chapter introduces physical infrastructure as the backbone of the nation that makes life easier for people, communities, and businesses. The transformation is evident from the historical context — railways started in 1853 under British rule for transporting raw materials, and today Indian Railways carries over 20 million passengers daily. The chapter highlights India's achievements: second-largest road network, fourth-largest railway system, 159 airports by 2025, and extensive communication infrastructure with 1,160 million wireless subscribers.

Solution Steps

  1. Physical infrastructure is defined as the network of tangible structures that keep cities and villages functioning

  2. It includes transportation systems (roads, bridges, railways), utilities (electricity, water), communication networks (internet, telephone), and energy infrastructure (windmills, solar parks, oil pipelines)

  3. Railways were introduced in India by the British in 1853, and today India has the fourth-largest railway system in the world

  4. India's current infrastructure achievements include the second-largest road network globally, 159 airports, 12 major ports, metro systems in 23 cities, and extensive communication infrastructure

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