Define the term ‘Road Density’. Explain with examples the two main determinants of road density in India.

Density of roads is length of roads per 100 square km of area.

The two main determinants of road density in India:

(i) Nature of terrain.

(ii) The level of economic development.

The density of road is high in most of the northern states and major southern states. It is low in the Himalayan region, north-eastern region, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Construction of roads is easy and cheaper in the plain areas while it is difficult and costly in hilly and plateau areas. Therefore, not only the density but also the quality of roads is relatively better in plains as compared to roads in high altitude areas, rainy and forested regions.