Question

Why were the forests cleared during the colonial period in India?

• A. For building ships
• B. For agricultural and mining activities
• C. For the construction of railway lines
• D. The forests were not cleared during the colonial period.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (C)

For the construction of railway lines

During the colonial period in India, the British exported vast quantities of timber to Britain to build ships for the Royal Navy. Forests were also cleared extensively for agricultural and mining activities. A large number of trees were cut down to meet the demands of the construction of railway sleepers and railway lines.