Introduction: -Roads bare the means that connect one
place to another on the surface of the land, different vehicles plying on roads
like bullock carts, cycles, motorcycles, cars, truck, buses, etc. All of these
constitute different means of road transport. Extensions of roads of every
corner of the country have also enhanced the use of motor driven transport. The
type of motor vehicles used to carry goods and passengers include taxis,
auto-rickshaws, scooters, vans, buses, tempos and trucks, etc.
The
livery (color) of the taxis in India varies from state-to state. In Delhi and
Maharashtra, most taxicabs have yellow-black livery while in west Bengal, taxis
have yellow livery. An auto rickshaw is a three-wheeler vehicle for hire that
has no doors and is generally characterized by a small cabin for the driver in
the front and a seat for passengers in the rear (back).
Buses take up over 90% of public transport in Indian
cities, and serve as a cheap and convenient mode of transport for all classes
of society. Services are mostly run by state government owned transport
corporations. India has a network of
National Highways connecting the entire major cities and state capitals. The
most notable being the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. India has a number of iconic
bridges ranging from the recently constructed Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
Advantages of
Road Transport: -Road transport has the following advantages
1.
It is a
relatively cheaper mode of transport as compared to other modes.
2.
Perishable
goods can be transported at a faster speed by road carriers over a short
distance.
3.
It is a
flexible mode of transport as loading and unloading is possible at any
destination.
4. It provides
door-to-door service.
5. It helps people
to travel and carry goods from one place to another, in place which are not
connected by other means of transport like hilly areas.
Limitation of
Road Transport: -Road transport has the following limitations.
1.
Due to limited
carrying capacity road transport is not economical for long distance
transportation of goods.
2.
Transportation
of heavy goods or goods in bulk by road involves high cost.
3.
It is affected by adverse weather conditions. Floods,
rain, landslide, etc., sometimes create obstructions to road transport.
4.
There is a possibility of road accidents which are
common, mainly on highways.
5.
It causes pollution due to the use of diesel, which
affects the health of people. It also causes noise pollution.
