Sign Up

Have an account?

Sign In

Don't have account,

Forgot Password

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.


Have an account?

Sorry, you do not have permission to ask a question, You must login to ask a question.

Need An Account,

Please briefly explain why you feel this question should be reported.

Please briefly explain why you feel this answer should be reported.

Please briefly explain why you feel this user should be reported.

Search
Ask A Question
Home/upsc: transport & communication

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Jahnavi Bordoloi
  • 0
Jahnavi BordoloiBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
  • 0

Determine how well large cities’ public transit systems work to relieve traffic congestion.

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    Public transportation systems including buses, trains, subways and bike sharing provide efficient, affordable and environmentally friendly mobility by reducing congestion, emissions and energy consumption through connecting communities and fueling urban economic growth.Public transportation systemsRead more

    Public transportation systems including buses, trains, subways and bike sharing provide efficient, affordable and environmentally friendly mobility by reducing congestion, emissions and energy consumption through connecting communities and fueling urban economic growth.Public transportation systems can significantly reduce urban congestion in major cities by –

    1. Reduced vehicle numbers on roads achieved through efficient public transportation, decreases urban congestion by 20-30%, lowering travel times, emissions and accidents in cities like Tokyo and Singapore.
    2. Efficient public transportation routes optimize travel times by reducing congestion by 15-25% through streamlined corridors, prioritized bus lanes and smart traffic signal management in cities like London and Seoul.
    3. Increased public transportation capacity through high capacity modes like metro and BRT reduces urban congestion by 30-40%, moving 10,000-50,000 passengers per hour, as seen in cities like New York and Paris.
    4. Decreased emissions from public transportation reduce urban air pollution by 20-50%, lowering greenhouse gases, particulate matter, and nitrogen oxides, improving air quality in cities like Copenhagen and Vancouver.

     

    Governments face challenges in evaluating public transportation’s effectiveness, including funding constraints, infrastructure deficits and rider behavior. Initiatives include smart traffic management, integrated mobility plans, public private partnerships, data analytics and investments in green transportation such as electric buses and bike sharing systems, enhancing urban mobility and sustainability.

    See less
Harshit Rangarajan
  • 0
Harshit RangarajanBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
  • 0

Examine how digital communication has affected India’s public service delivery and government.

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    Digital communication enables instant global connectivity through platforms like social media, email, messaging apps and video conferencing fostering information exchange, collaboration and networking revolutionizing personal and professional interactions.Digital communication has transformed governRead more

    Digital communication enables instant global connectivity through platforms like social media, email, messaging apps and video conferencing fostering information exchange, collaboration and networking revolutionizing personal and professional interactions.Digital communication has transformed governance and public service delivery in India, yielding positive impacts –

    1. Digital communication enhances transparency and accountability in Indian governance through real time updates, e-tracker systems and citizen feedback mechanisms, promoting good governance.
    2. Improved accessibility and citizen engagement enhance digital governance in India through inclusive participation, transparent feedback and efficient public service delivery nationwide.
    3. Digital communication streamlines Indian governance, reducing processing times by automating services, minimizing paperwork and enabling swift online transactions nationwide instantly.
    4. Digital governance in India expands reach to marginalized communities through accessible platforms, bridging geographical and socio economic divides, ensuring inclusive services.
    5. Digitized services in India minimize corruption by eliminating intermediaries, automating transactions and promoting transparency, ensuring citizen centric, corruption free governance and services.

     

    Challenges impeding digital communication’s impact on Indian governance and public services include digital divide, infrastructure limitations, cybersecurity threats, data privacy concerns, inadequate digital literacy, integration issues with legacy systems and insufficient internet penetration in rural areas.

    See less
Harshit Rangarajan
  • 0
Harshit RangarajanBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
  • 0

In what ways does the growth of the railroad network support economic equilibrium and regional integration?

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    India's vast railway network, spanning 67,000 km, connects 8,000 stations, ferrying 23 million passengers and 1.3 million tonnes of freight daily, driving economic growth, social unity and national development.The expansion of the railway network significantly contributes to regional integration andRead more

    India’s vast railway network, spanning 67,000 km, connects 8,000 stations, ferrying 23 million passengers and 1.3 million tonnes of freight daily, driving economic growth, social unity and national development.The expansion of the railway network significantly contributes to regional integration and economic balance in several ways –

    1. Railway expansion enhances connectivity, linking remote areas to cities, ports and markets, fostering regional integration, economic growth and balance nationwide.
    2. Railway expansion fuels economic growth, generating jobs, increasing trade and attracting investments, bridging regional disparities and promoting balanced development nationwide.
    3. Railway expansion reduces transportation costs, increasing trade volume, competitiveness and market access, stimulating regional economies and promoting economic equilibrium nationwide.
    4. Railway expansion promotes regional equity, distributing economic opportunities, resources and services evenly, bridging regional disparities and fostering inclusive growth nationwide.
    5. Railway expansion fosters national unity, connecting diverse regions, cultures and communities, promoting social cohesion and integrating India’s vast geography economically.
    6. Railway expansion increases accessibility to remote areas, enhancing access to education, healthcare, markets and employment opportunities, empowering regional development and growth.
    7. Railway expansion offers eco friendly transportation, reducing carbon emissions, congestion and pollution, promoting sustainable development and balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.
    8. Railway expansion generates employment opportunities in construction, operations and maintenance, creating livelihoods for locals, stimulating regional economies and reducing unemployment.

     

    The government’s initiatives such as Dedicated Freight Corridors, Bharatmala and Railway Station redevelopment aim to expand the railway network, enhancing regional connectivity, boosting economic growth and promoting balanced development through increased accessibility, job creation and reduced logistics costs.

     

    See less
Jahnavi Bordoloi
  • 0
Jahnavi BordoloiBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
  • 0

Talk about the National Logistics Policy’s advantages and disadvantages for India’s supply networks.

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    India's National Logistics Policy aims to streamline logistics operations by reducing costs from 14% to 10% of GDP through unified regulations, digitalization, infrastructure development, skill training and integration with global supply chains, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness. Challenges -Read more

    India’s National Logistics Policy aims to streamline logistics operations by reducing costs from 14% to 10% of GDP through unified regulations, digitalization, infrastructure development, skill training and integration with global supply chains, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness.

    Challenges –

    1. Infrastructure gaps including inadequate roads, ports, warehouses, and rail networks hinder efficient logistics operations nationwide.
    2. Complex, overlapping regulations across states and ministries create bureaucratic hurdles, delaying logistics operations and compliance.
    3. Insufficient trained professionals in logistics, transportation and supply chain management hinder industry growth and efficiency.
    4. India’s highly fragmented logistics sector with numerous small players, hinders standardization, coordination and scalability efforts.
    5. Slow adoption of digital technologies, such as blockchain, IoT and automation, limits logistics efficiency and transparency.

     

    Opportunities –

    1. Unified regulatory framework streamlines logistics operations, reducing complexity, bureaucratic hurdles and compliance costs nationwide instantly.
    2. Infrastructure development boosts logistics efficiency, connectivity and capacity, unlocking India’s economic growth and trade potential.
    3. Digitalization transforms logistics through automation, real time tracking and data analytics, enhancing efficiency, transparency and competitiveness.
    4. Skill development initiatives upskill logistics workforce, fostering expertise, innovation and employability, driving sector growth sustainably.
    5. Integration with global supply chains unlocks export potential, foreign investments and technology transfer for India.
    6. National Logistics Policy generates millions of jobs, empowering youth, boosting employment and stimulating economic growth nationwide.
    7. National Logistics Policy streamlines operations, reducing transportation costs, inventory holding and transit times by 10-15%.
    See less
Adheesh Raman
  • 0
Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: January 25, 2025In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing Understand the Question Directive: “Explain” requires a detailed and clear presentation of ideas and their significance. Focus: Urban mass transport’s role in India’s rapid economic development. Structure the Answer Introduction: Start with the importance of urban areas in India’s economy and ...

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Urban areas are the engines of India's economic growth, contributing about 65% of the nation's GDP. With urbanization accelerating, this share is expected to reach 70% by 2030. To sustain this momentum, efficient urban mass transport systems are critical for overcoming congRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Urban areas are the engines of India’s economic growth, contributing about 65% of the nation’s GDP. With urbanization accelerating, this share is expected to reach 70% by 2030. To sustain this momentum, efficient urban mass transport systems are critical for overcoming congestion, reducing emissions, and enhancing productivity.

    The Significance of Urban Mass Transport for India’s Economic Development

    1. Supporting Clusters and Agglomerations
      Efficient urban transport fosters high-density development by overcoming the limitations of private vehicle usage. This enhances economic clustering and productivity.

      • Fact: Metropolitan congestion costs major Indian cities 1–6% of GDP annually due to delays and inefficiencies.
    2. Raising Energy Efficiency
      Public transport is significantly more energy-efficient, using only a sixth of the energy per passenger mile compared to private vehicles.

      • Fact: Expanding metro rail systems could reduce India’s carbon emissions by 14% by 2030 (McKinsey report).
    3. Increasing Productive Man-Hours
      Improved transit systems save commuting time, especially in traffic-heavy cities like Bengaluru, enabling better utilization of working hours.

      • Fact: Commuters in Bengaluru spend an average of 243 hours annually stuck in traffic (TomTom Traffic Index, 2022).
    4. Promoting Social Inclusivity
      Affordable and accessible mass transit connects marginalized communities in urban peripheries to economic hubs, fostering equity.

      • Fact: Women’s safety perceptions improve with secure mass transport, reducing gender inequality.
    5. Enhancing Job Accessibility
      Improved connectivity broadens the labor market by making jobs more accessible to workers from diverse locations.

      • Fact: Traffic delays in Delhi and Bengaluru cause significant economic losses due to reduced workforce efficiency.
    6. Health and Environmental Benefits
      Efficient public transport reduces pollution exposure and health risks.

      • Fact: Cities like Delhi and Gurugram suffer high pollution-related health costs, which effective transit systems can mitigate.

    Challenges to Urban Mass Transport

    • Traffic congestion and insufficient infrastructure hinder mass transit adoption.
    • Poor last-mile connectivity discourages users from switching to public transport.
    • Affordability remains a barrier for low-income groups.

    Way Forward

    1. Policy Reforms
      Implement policies like the Green Urban Transport Scheme and FAME to promote electric and efficient mobility.
    2. Transit-Oriented Development
      Encourage compact urban development near transit hubs, as seen in Hong Kong.
    3. Incentives for Public Transport
      Introduce congestion fees for private vehicles and expand shared mobility options.

    Conclusion

    Urban mass transport is a cornerstone of India’s economic development, addressing connectivity, equity, and environmental challenges. Prioritizing its expansion and modernization is essential for sustaining growth and achieving sustainability goals.

    See less
Sonali B
  • 0
Sonali BBegginer
Asked: June 25, 2024In:
  • 0

Pipelines carrying gas and oil are regarded as the lifeblood of the economy. Provide some information about the state of India’s gas and oil pipelines in this regard. List the benefits and drawbacks of pipeline transportation as well. (Answer in ...

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Gita Sharma
    Gita Sharma Begginer

    Pipelines are the most convenient and suitable mode of transportation for petroleum products and gases in bulk for longer distances. Transportation by pipelines is a rising development being preferred nowadays for cost-effective projects in the various fields. Advantages of pipeline transportation ERead more

    Pipelines are the most convenient and suitable mode of transportation for petroleum products and gases in bulk for longer distances. Transportation by pipelines is a rising development being preferred nowadays for cost-effective projects in the various fields.
    Advantages of pipeline transportation

    • Energy efficient: Pipelines consume very little energy in comparison to other modes of transportation. Further, the transit losses are minimal in transportation through pipelines.
    • Economical construction and maintenance: They have low energy consumption and low maintenance costs. Additionally, they can be built in difficult terrains, under water etc. The running cost of the materials through pipelines is very low. It is 10 times less than surface transportation.
    • Transportation of solid materials and future prospects: Nowadays solid minerals are being transported through pipelines too, cutting down on operating and transportation costs considerably. Example: Iron ore in the form of slurry from Kudremukh to Mangalore port, Rock phosphate from Malton mines to Debari smelter plant in Udaipur etc.
    • Reduction in accidental charges: Pipelines are safe, relatively accident-free and environmentally friendly.
    • Reduces regional disparity: The far inland location of refineries like Barauni, Mathura, Karnal and gas based fertiliser plants at Jagdishpur and other places could be thought of only because of pipelines.

    Disadvantages of pipeline transportation

    • High initial costs and inability to increase capacity once the pipeline is laid.
    • Pipelines are prone to distortions in case of earthquakes. It is very difficult to find leakages and cracks in case of distortions.
    • Pipelines face security threats from terrorist organizations, especially in the case of transboundary pipeline like the TAPI pipeline.

    As of August, 2022, India had more than 10,000 kms of crude pipeline network, with a capacity of around 147.9 MMTPA. Following are some of the important pipelines in India.

    • Naharkatia-Nunmati-Barauni Pipeline: It was the first pipeline constructed in India to bring crude oil from Naharkatia oil field to Nunmati. It has a number of subsidiary pipelines like Nunmati-Siliguri pipeline, Lakwa-Rudrasagar-Barauni pipeline, Barauni-Haldia pipeline, Barauni-Kanpur pipeline etc.
    • Mumbai High-Mumbai pipeline: It is a double- pipeline that connects Mumbai with Mumbai High providing facilities for transporting crude oil and natural gas.
    • Ankleshwar-Kayoli Pipeline: It transports crude oil from Ankleshwar oilfield to Koyali refinery.
    • Salaya-Koyali-Mathura Pipeline: An important pipeline has been laid from Salaya in Gujarat to Mathura in U.P. via Viramgram which supplies crude oil to refineries at Koyali and Mathura.
    • Mathura-Delhi Panipat- Ambala-Jalandhar pipeline: It transports refined products Mathura & of Panipat refineries to market centers of N.W. India.
    • Haldia-Kolkata pipeline:It transports refined petroleum products to Kolkata.
    • Hazira-Bijaypur-Jagdishpur gas pipeline: This is the longest gas pipeline of India that has brought about a big transformation in the economy of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
    • Jamnagar-Loni LPG pipeline: It is the longest LPG pipeline in the world. It is the first time that a cross-country pipeline has been used to transport LPG adding to the availability of supplies, safety in transportation, and wider distribution etc.

    Transportation by pipelines is a new development in India. Pipelines have relieved the increasing pressure on the existing surface transport system and can go a long way as the future of transportation of essential materials, especially as India is intending to move towards a gas-based economy. A robust and efficient policy for the same will not only ensure this, but also help in the overall economic growth of the country.

    See less
Smitha Krishnan
  • 0
Smitha KrishnanBegginer
Asked: January 28, 2025In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly define what dry ports are: inland inter-modal facilities for transferring cargo between different modes of transport (road, rail, sea, and air). Highlight the importance of integrating dry ports with various transportation modes in improving logistics efficiency ...

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Integrating dry ports with various modes of transportation can significantly improve logistics efficiency in economic corridors by streamlining the movement of cargo. Dry ports act as inland hubs where cargo can be transferred between different transportation modes, facilitRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Integrating dry ports with various modes of transportation can significantly improve logistics efficiency in economic corridors by streamlining the movement of cargo. Dry ports act as inland hubs where cargo can be transferred between different transportation modes, facilitating smoother and faster trade routes. Below are the key ways in which dry ports enhance logistics efficiency, along with examples.

    Enhancement of Connectivity

    Dry ports act as vital links between various transportation modes like road, rail, and sea, thereby improving overall connectivity. For example, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) terminal in Varanasi connects the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor to National Waterway-1, improving trade routes and transportation options.

    Reduction in Congestion

    By diverting cargo away from seaports, dry ports help reduce congestion, thus enabling smoother operations. Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA), located at the world’s largest man-made port, reduces congestion by handling container traffic and providing customs clearance services.

    Reduced Transit Time

    Dry ports improve efficiency by offering additional transportation options, reducing overall transit times. The Port of Venlo in the Netherlands, connected to the Port of Rotterdam, speeds up cargo transit across Europe by providing direct connections to multiple countries, reducing transportation costs and time.

    Cost-Effectiveness

    Integration with dry ports can significantly reduce logistics costs. The Western Dedicated Freight Corridor in India features the Dadri dry port, which connects the rail network to a container freight station, offering a cost-effective alternative for transport.

    Improved Capacity

    Dry ports can increase logistics system capacity. The Memphis Regional Intermodal Facility in the U.S. connects rail and road networks, enabling it to handle higher volumes of cargo and thus increasing the overall efficiency of the logistics system.

    Challenges

    Challenges include land acquisition, infrastructure development, regulatory hurdles, poor connectivity, and security concerns. For instance, dry ports require substantial investment and often face competition from seaports. Additionally, connectivity issues between transport modes can hinder efficiency.

    Conclusion

    Integrating dry ports enhances logistical efficiency by improving connectivity, reducing congestion, and cutting costs. As such, they are vital in supporting economic corridors, although addressing challenges like infrastructure and regulatory concerns is crucial for their success.

    See less
Ishani Chetia
  • 0
Ishani ChetiaBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
  • 0

Examine how India’s transportation network contributes to the country’s economic growth.

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    India's transport infrastructure comprises 63000 km of railways, 1.15 million km of roads, 13 major ports, 7500 km of inland waterways and 148 airports. Ongoing initiatives like Bharatmala, Sagarmala and Dedicated Freight Corridors enhance connectivity, efficiency and economic growth.Transport infraRead more

    India’s transport infrastructure comprises 63000 km of railways, 1.15 million km of roads, 13 major ports, 7500 km of inland waterways and 148 airports. Ongoing initiatives like Bharatmala, Sagarmala and Dedicated Freight Corridors enhance connectivity, efficiency and economic growth.Transport infrastructure plays a vital role in facilitating economic development in India by –

    1. Transport infrastructure enhances India’s connectivity by linking businesses, markets and people, facilitating trade, investment and economic growth through efficient movement of goods and services.
    2. India’s transport infrastructure boosts efficiency by reducing transit times, costs and logistics hurdles, enabling faster delivery, increased productivity and competitiveness nationwide.
    3. Transport infrastructure fuels India’s economic growth by stimulating trade, investment and job creation, while increasing GDP, industrial production and foreign exchange earnings significantly.
    4. India’s transport infrastructure generates employment through construction, operations and logistics, creating direct and indirect jobs in transportation, manufacturing and services, boosting livelihoods nationwide.
    5. Transport infrastructure bridges India’s regional disparities by connecting rural and urban areas, stimulating local economies and promoting inclusive growth through improved accessibility and connectivity.

     

    India’s transport infrastructure faces challenges i.e. inadequate funding, capacity constraints, congestion, inefficiencies, land acquisition issues, environmental concerns, project delays and lack of last mile connectivity, hindering economic growth and regional development.

     

    See less
Rishi Sharma
  • 0
Rishi SharmaBegginer
Asked: June 25, 2024In:
  • 0

The entertainment market in India is the second largest in the world. Examine the factors that led to the development of the Indian animation and visual effects industries in this context. (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Tushar Swan
    Tushar Swan Begginer
Harshit Rangarajan
  • 0
Harshit RangarajanBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
  • 0

Examine the role that rivers play in India’s transportation system and the opportunities they present for growth.

upsc: transport & communication
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    India's waterways comprising 7517 km of navigable rivers, 14500 km of coastline and inland water bodies offer eco friendly transportation boosting trade, tourism and economic growth with vast untapped potential. Significance - India's waterways enhance connectivity by linking coastal areas, rivers aRead more

    India’s waterways comprising 7517 km of navigable rivers, 14500 km of coastline and inland water bodies offer eco friendly transportation boosting trade, tourism and economic growth with vast untapped potential.

    Significance –

    1. India’s waterways enhance connectivity by linking coastal areas, rivers and inland regions, facilitating trade, commerce and economic growth nationwide.
    2. India’s waterways generate economic benefits by reducing logistics costs, increasing trade volumes and boosting GDP through efficient transportation.
    3. India’s waterways offer environmental benefits by reducing carbon emissions, congestion, pollution and fuel consumption, promoting sustainable transportation nationwide.
    4. India’s waterways foster job creation by supporting livelihoods in shipping, fishing, tourism and allied industries, employing millions nationwide annually.

     

    Potential for development –

    1. India’s inland waterways hold vast development potential by enhancing connectivity, trade and economic growth in hinterlands.
    2. India’s coastal shipping boosts trade, reduces logistics costs and increases economic growth along coastal regions.
    3. India’s river linking project enables seamless navigation, boosting trade, irrigation and power generation across interconnected rivers.
    4. India’s waterway modernization enhances efficiency, safety and capacity through upgraded infrastructure, technology and vessel designs.
    5. India’s waterways unlock tourism potential by offering scenic cruises, riverfront developments and recreational activities nationwide attractions.

     

    India’s waterways face challenges like shallow drafts, inadequate infrastructure and bureaucratic hurdles. Government initiatives such as Sagarmala and Jal Marg Vikas aim to address these issues through dredging, port modernization and regulatory reforms, boosting efficiency and capacity.

    See less
Load More Questions

Resources & Suggestions

Mains Answer Writing Latest Articles

On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

Indo-US Relation: Areas of Cooperation & Conflicts

Key Areas: Defense, technology, trade, energy, and regional cooperation. Key Areas of Cooperation 1. Defense and Security Transition from buyer-seller to co-production and technology sharing. India as a Major Defense Partner (MDP) and inclusion in STA-1. Access to advanced technologies, ...

On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

भारत-अमेरिका संबंध: सहयोग और संघर्ष के क्षेत्र

मुख्य विषय: भारत-अमेरिका संबंधों की मजबूती, विशेषकर रक्षा, प्रौद्योगिकी और क्षेत्रीय सहयोग में प्रगति। सहयोग के प्रमुख क्षेत्र 1. रक्षा एवं सुरक्षा सहयोग भारत और अमेरिका के बीच रक्षा संबंधों का विस्तार। प्रमुख रक्षा साझेदार (MDP) का दर्जा और STA-1 ...

On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

India’s Disaster Management

The article discusses the growing tensions between the Centre and states regarding disaster relief funding in India. It emphasizes the need for a transparent and equitable disaster management framework. Key Disaster Threats India Faces Increasing Frequency of Extreme Weather Events ...

Explore Our Blog