Impact of Railways on Indian Forests

The video discusses the critical role forests play in providing resources like timber, bamboo, and food. It highlights the concept of deforestation, particularly during the British colonial period in India, driven by population growth, agricultural expansion, and industrial needs. The expansion of the railway network further accelerated deforestation to meet timber demands. The video emphasizes the dependency on forests and the resulting deforestation due to human needs.

What are some of the resources provided by forests?

• Plastic and metals

• Timber and bamboo

• Concrete and steel

• Glass and ceramics

What is deforestation?

• Building dams

• Planting more trees

• Clearing forests for human use

• Protecting wildlife

Why did deforestation begin in India during the British Raj?

• To create national parks

• To reduce pollution

• To increase agricultural production

• To build more cities

What was one reason the British considered forests unproductive?

• They were too far from cities

• They did not generate income

• They were too dense

• They were home to dangerous animals

What led to the exploitation of Indian forests for timber?

• The construction of new roads

• The disappearance of Oak forests in Britain

• The expansion of agriculture

• The need for paper production

Why did the British need timber from Indian forests?

• To create sculptures

• To make furniture

• To construct ships for the Royal Navy

• To build houses

What was a major reason for the expansion of the railway network in India?

• To reduce travel time for locals

• To promote tourism

• To facilitate trade and troop movement

• To connect villages

How did the railway expansion contribute to deforestation?

• By requiring large amounts of timber

• By reducing the need for roads

• By increasing urbanization

• By promoting eco-friendly practices

What was the British rationale for expanding railways in India?

• To improve local transportation

• To develop tourism

• To enhance trade and control over India

• To support Indian independence

What is a consequence of high human dependency on forests?

• Increased forest area

• Deforestation

• More wildlife

• Better air quality