Theory question 103
Transport, Trade and TourismUsing specific examples, discuss rail transportation in African countries under the following headings (a) Reasons for construction (b) Problems (c) Solutions
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(a) To carry export crops and minerals to ports (e.g. Zambian copper via TAZARA to Dar es Salaam; Lagos-Kano for groundnuts; Enugu coal to Port Harcourt); to open up the interior; for colonial administration and troop movement; to link major towns; to carry imports inland.
(b) Narrow gauge and single tracks; old engines and coaches; slow and unreliable; lines run from ports inland with few links between countries; different gauges; poor maintenance and management; competition from roads; high cost.
(c) Standard gauge and double tracks; new rolling stock; better funding and management (or privatisation); linking national networks; improved maintenance and training.
Give African examples for each heading.