The correct answer is option 2: facilitate British commerce and administrative control. During the British colonization of India, the introduction of railways served the purpose of enhancing British trade and enabling efficient transportation of goods across the country. The railways were primarily built to connect major ports and resource-rich areas to facilitate the movement of goods and raw materials for British industries. Additionally, the railways played a crucial role in consolidating British administrative control over India by facilitating the rapid movement of troops, officials, and resources. While the railways did have some positive impacts on Indian society, such as enhancing communication and providing job opportunities, their main objective was to serve British economic and administrative interests.