What is the road density (KM of road per 100 KM² of total area) in Rajasthan?

The correct answer is 78.61.

Key Points

• The road density in Rajasthan is 78.61 kilometers of road per 100 square kilometers of total area.
• Rajasthan, being the largest state in India by area (342,239 square kilometers), has significant focus on road development to connect its vast regions.
• The state government, along with the central government, has invested in improving rural and urban road infrastructure under schemes like Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
• Rajasthan's road density is lower than the national average due to the state’s large desert areas and sparse population in certain regions.
• Efforts are ongoing to increase road connectivity in the state, especially in desert and tribal areas.

Additional Information

• Road Density in India:
  • Road density is defined as the length of road per 100 square kilometers of land area.
  • India's average road density is approximately 149.7 km/100 km², making it one of the most extensive road networks globally.
  • States like Kerala and West Bengal have higher road densities due to smaller geographical areas and higher population density.
• Rajasthan’s Geographic Challenges:
  • A significant portion of Rajasthan is covered by the Thar Desert, which poses challenges to road construction and maintenance.
  • The sparse population in some regions reduces the economic viability of constructing roads in those areas.
• Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY):
  • Launched in 2000, this scheme aims to provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected villages in India.
  • It has been a critical driver of rural development in Rajasthan, improving access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.
• Desert Roads Development Programme:
  • This initiative focuses on improving road infrastructure in arid and semi-arid regions, including Rajasthan.
  • It aims to enhance connectivity in desert regions and strengthen road infrastructure to support economic activities.