Why is timber demand for railways considered a major cause of deforestation?

Correct answer: Because railway sleepers required large quantities of strong timber

During the colonial period, durable, strong timber was needed for sleepers placed beneath railway tracks. As the railway network expanded, trees were felled for millions of sleepers and other railway-related needs, reducing forest cover. Option B is incorrect because railway tracks were not laid using only bamboo. Exam tip: link railway expansion and the demand for wooden sleepers with colonial deforestation.