Transport Cities

Transport cities are settlements whose primary economic function revolves around transportation — either as gateways for the movement of goods and people or as junctions where different transport routes meet. The textbook classifies them into two broad types based on the mode of transport they serve.

Port cities are located on coasts or navigable rivers and are primarily engaged in export and import activities. These cities handle cargo, provide warehousing, and often develop industries linked to trade. Examples given in the book include Kandla, Cochin, Kozhikode, and Vishakhapatnam. Each of these ports serves as a major node in India's maritime trade network.

Inland transport hubs are cities situated away from the coast but at the crossing of major roads, railways, or river routes. They function as break-of-bulk points where goods are transferred from one mode of transport to another, or as collection and distribution centres for a region. The textbook lists Agra, Dhulia, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Nagar, Itarsi, and Katni as examples. These cities grew because of their strategic location along rail lines or highways, making them essential for internal trade and passenger movement.