NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Geography Chapter 7 Transport and Communication

1. Choose the right answers of the following from the given options.

(i) In how many zones has the Indian Railways system been divided?

• (a) 9

• (b) 12

• (c) 17

• (d) 14
  
  

Answer: (c) 17

(ii) On which river and between which two places does the National Water Way No. 1 lie?

• (a) The Brahmaputra, Sadiya–Dhubri

• (b) The Ganga, Haldia–Prayagraj

• (c) West Coast Canal, Kottapuram to Kollam

• (d) Godavari–Kakinada Puducherry
  
  

Answer: (b) The Ganga, Haldia–Prayagraj

(iii) In which year was the first radio programme broadcast?

• (a) 1911

• (b) 1936

• (c) 1927

• (d) 1923
  
  

Answer: (d) 1923

2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words.

(i) Which activity does transportation convey? Name three major modes of transportation.

Transportation conveys the movement of goods, people, and commodities from one place to another.

The three major modes of transportation are:

• Land transport (roads and railways)

• Water transport (inland and oceanic)

• Air transport (airways)
  
  

(ii) Discuss advantages and disadvantages of pipeline transportation.

Pipelines are very efficient for transporting liquids and gases over long distances, require less energy, and reduce road and rail congestion.

However, they have high initial construction costs, are suitable only for specific goods, and any leakage may cause wastage or environmental harm.

(iii) What do you mean by ‘communication’?

Communication is the process of exchanging ideas, information, views, and messages from one place or person to another, using various methods such as oral, written, electronic, or satellite-based systems.

3. Answer the following questions in about 150 words.

(i) Which are the chief means of transportation in India? Discuss the factors affecting their development.

The chief means of transportation in India include roads, railways, waterways, airways, and pipelines. Roads provide connectivity even in remote areas and are key for short-distance travel. Railways are important for carrying large volumes of goods and passengers over long distances. Waterways, though economical, are used mainly for bulky cargo and are limited by navigable stretches and seasonal flow. Airways facilitate rapid and comfortable travel, especially in challenging terrains. Pipelines serve liquid and gaseous goods.

The development of these means depends on several factors: physical (terrain, climate, river navigability), economic (level of development, trade patterns), technological advancements, government policy, regional demand, and strategic importance. Difficult terrains like mountains or forests hinder construction, while plains and dense populations encourage network expansion. Economic growth and industrialization also drive improvements and expansions in transport infrastructure.

(ii) Give a detailed account of the development of railways in India and highlight their importance.

The Indian Railways began in 1853, with the first line between Bombay and Thane. Since then, the network has expanded extensively, making it the largest government enterprise in India with over 67,956 km of track (2019-20). Railways connect all parts of the country, divided into 17 management zones. Technological improvements include conversion of gauges to broad gauge and transition to diesel and electric engines, enhancing speed and efficiency. Metro rail systems in cities like Delhi further ease urban transport.

Railways play a pivotal role in transporting both freight and passengers, integrating markets, fostering economic growth, and promoting unity among diverse regions. They facilitate raw material supply to industries, support agriculture through reach to remote areas, and help in nation-building by connecting people. Despite challenges in hilly and northeastern areas, railways remain the backbone of India's transportation system.

(iii) Describe the role of roads in the economic development of India.

Roads play an essential role in India’s economic development by providing last-mile connectivity and enabling movement of goods, services, and people across the country. They are crucial for linking rural areas with urban centers, promoting agriculture by facilitating input supply and market access, and supporting industries through transport of raw materials and finished goods.

Roads also foster tourism and enable rapid disaster response and defense logistics. Projects like National Highways, Golden Quadrilateral, and rural roads under government schemes transform regional economies, bridge urban-rural divide, and accelerate national integration. Despite challenges like congestion and maintenance, the road network continues to be the lifeline of India’s socio-economic development.

Mastering Transport and Communication for Class 12 Geography

Class 12 Geography Chapter 7 covers key concepts of transport and communication essential for understanding human geography. Focus on modes such as land, water, air, and pipelines to build a strong foundation for the NCERT 2025-26 syllabus and beyond.

Regular practice of NCERT exercise-based solutions helps in retaining information and applying it during exams. Understanding how various transport systems complement each other will boost your scoring potential and concept clarity for board and entrance exams.

Stay updated with the latest NCERT Solutions (2025-26) and focus on exam tips such as creating flowcharts for transportation modes. Revisiting the chapter frequently ensures deeper learning and higher marks in Class 12 Geography assessments.