Microsoft Word marketing doc

National Integration
Railways have increased the mobility of people, which has reduced the 
isolation between urban and rural masses. Increased mobility has led to 
understanding national problems and helped in national integration. 
9) 
Strategic Benefits
In addition to social and economic benefits railways also conferred a 
number of political and administrative benefits. They play a decisive role in 
determination of the location of an industry. Industries can be shifted to 
backward regions. Police and army can be moved to place of requirement in 
case of external aggression or internal disturbances, etc. 
Disadvantages of Rail Transport 
The disadvantages of rail transport are as follows : 
1) 
Heavy Capital Outlay
Railways require large amount of capital, for the purchase of land, laying 
of track purchase of locomotives, wagons, etc. 
2) 
Inflexible
Railways 
are 
dependent 
on a particular track and its services are 
available only between certain definite points. Hence, goods and passengers 
have to move to a railway station by other modes of transport. 
3) 
Suitability
For a short distance and perishable goods, railways are not suitable mode 
of transport. It is undoubtedly a costlier mode of transport for short distance. 
4) 
Inconvenience
Because of the heavy cost involved in its construction and maintenance, 
railways cannot operate economically in the rural areas with inadequate traffic.
Therefore, rural people find it inconvenient to avail the services of the railways 
because the stations are far away from their villages. Further, railways do not 
penetrate into mountain regions and hence rail transport cannot be used. 
5) 
Risk of damage
Movement of goods by railways involves loading and unloading at 
various points. This not only increases the transportation costs but also 
increases the chances of pilferage and damage to the goods. There is no close 
personal supervision of goods in transit, as in the case of roadways. 

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6) 
Delays
Delays are common feature of railways. Delays in loading and 
unloading, waiting at the terminals or stations for crossing are the common 
problems which result in delay and improper maintenance of time.