Question

What factors affect the growth and development of inland waterways in India?

Answer 1

i) The rivers and canals should have regular flow of sufficient water.

ii) The presence of waterfalls, cataracts and sharp bends in the course of river hinder the development of waterways.

iii) Silting of the riverbed reduces the depth of the water and creates problem for navigation. Desilting of river beds is a costly affair.

iv) Diversion of water for irrigation purposes reduces the quantity of water and shoud be done carefully.

v) There should be sufficient demand for waterways to make it an economically viable mode of transportation.