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The Indian Railways have gone in for qualitative improvements since independence. Which of the following have taken place in recent years ? 1. Gauge conversion 2. Track electrification 3. Automatic signals Select the correct answer using the codes given below ;
Explanation
Since independence, Indian Railways has undergone significant qualitative improvements to modernize its infrastructure. Gauge conversion is a primary focus, specifically through 'Project Unigauge' launched in 1992, which aims to convert Metre and Narrow gauges into Broad Gauge to facilitate seamless transport [3]. By 2019-20, Broad Gauge accounted for approximately 63,950 km of the network [3]. Track electrification has also been a major recent priority to improve efficiency and reduce carbon footprints, with substantial portions of the running track already electrified [2]. Furthermore, the introduction of automatic signals and advanced signaling systems (like Kavach) represents a critical qualitative shift to enhance safety and increase line capacity. These three elements—gauge conversion, electrification, and advanced signaling—form the core pillars of the railway's modernization strategy in recent years to handle increasing passenger and freight demands [2].
Sources
- [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 12: Transport, Communications and Trade > Main Features of Indian Railways > p. 12
- [3] INDIA PEOPLE AND ECONOMY, TEXTBOOK IN GEOGRAPHY FOR CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 7: Transport and Communication > Table 7.2 : Indian Railways: Railway Zones and Headquarters > p. 79
- [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 12: Transport, Communications and Trade > Rail Transport > p. 11