Which of the following factors of development of inland waterways are correct?
(A) Navigability-width and depths of the channel
(B) Continuity-in the water flow
(C) Transport technology in use
(D) Torrential rain for water supply
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → (A), (B), and (C) only
Inland waterways are rivers, canals and lakes used to carry cargo and passengers by boats and steamers. Their development depends on three factors.
(A) Navigability-width and depths of the channel — Correct. Boats can move only where the channel is wide and deep enough.
(B) Continuity-in the water flow — Correct. A waterway needs water flowing all the time. Riverways in India lost importance partly because water was diverted for irrigation.
(C) Transport technology in use — Correct. The boats and steamers used decide what a waterway can carry.
(D) Torrential rain for water supply — Incorrect. Torrential rain is not one of these factors. What a waterway needs is a continuous flow of water, not sudden heavy rain.
NCERT (2026-27): “Inland Waterways Rivers, canals, lakes and coastal areas have been important waterways since time immemorial. Boats and steamers are used as means of transport for cargo and passengers. The development of inland waterways is dependent on the navigability width and depth of the channel, continuity in the water flow, and transport technology in use.” |