Question

State any two disadvantages of Rail Transport.

Describe the limitations of rail transport.

Answer 1

1. Huge capital outlay: A huge capital investment is required to construct a railway system. Railway tracks have to be laid out, stations need to be constructed, and railway waggons and other equipment have to be manufactured. This is beyond the capacity of an individual investor.
2. Inflexibility: Railways follow fixed routes and time schedules. No adjustments are made to suit the needs and convenience of individual users. A railway network is limited to the particular area in which the tracks have been laid, and its services are available only between certain definite points. Goods have to be brought to and carried from the railway station. Door-to-door service is not possible.
3. Expensive: Maintenance and other operating costs of railways are very high. Terminal loading and unloading of goods involves extra expenditure and waste. Therefore, railway transport is not suitable for the short-distance traffic of goods.
4. Delay: It is not always convenient to send goods by rail. Time is wasted in booking and delivery formalities. Terminal delay is caused by waiting for full wagons, shunting of wagons, etc.
5. Damage: Frequent and careless handling of goods involves wear and tear. There is delay and pilferage in sending goods by rail. Therefore, railway transport is not suitable for carrying perishable and fragile goods.
6. Evils of monopoly: Since railways enjoy a monopoly among transport facilities, they tend to take customers for granted. They are often negligent about the needs and convenience of customers. As a result, users of rail facilities complain of inefficient and irregular service. Lack of competition, bureaucratic red tape and political interference also reduce efficiency.
7. Under utilisation: For economical operations, railways have to build up a full load. Where the traffic is inadequate, the underutilization of capacity poses a financial burden. In case a line is to be withdrawn for lack of sufficient traffic, a heavy loss of capital takes place.
8. Unsuitable for short distances: Over short distances and for small loads, the railway is a costlier mode of transport. Delays and costs are involved in terminal loading, unloading of goods, shunting and assembly of waggons, etc.