Transport and Communication
The depiction of transport and communication features in topographical maps plays a crucial role in understanding the accessibility of a region. This section details how various transport routes and infrastructures are represented.
1. Roads
Two main types of roads are illustrated on the maps:
- Metalled Roads: These are shown as solid black lines. They indicate well-developed, maintained roads suitable for all weather conditions.
- Unmetalled Roads: Represented with dashed lines, these roads are often less developed and may not be all-weather pathways. Their appearance suggests they are used for less intensive traffic.
2. Railways
Railway lines are crucial for understanding transport connectivity, and they are marked in two forms:
- Double Tracks: Indicating major railway routes with two lines running parallel.
- Single Tracks: Represented by a single line with crossbars to denote the presence of crossings or stations.
3. Other Features:
- Cart Tracks: These are shown with specific symbols that identify paths taken by cart traffic, usually in rural settings.
- Bridges and Causeways: These are marked distinctly on maps, showing important links over waterways and challenging terrains.
Understanding these symbols not only aids in navigation but also provides insight into the socio-economic structure of the area, helping to analyze how people move, trade, and communicate across the landscape.