Why did railway expansion mainly increase pressure on forests?

Correct answer: Because wooden sleepers were needed in large numbers for tracks

The direct answer is B: railway expansion required wooden sleepers in large numbers. A sleeper is a support placed beneath railway rails to keep them at the correct distance and hold them firmly in position. During the colonial period, many railway lines used timber sleepers, so extending the network created a very large demand for suitable wood. Trees were also cut for bridges, stations, fuel, and cleared routes, but the option specifically asks for the main link emphasized here: sleepers. Option B is correct. Option A is wrong because railways do not run in the sea. Option C is wrong because railway construction did not stop farming as its main effect. Option D is a humorous but false statement; engines do not fear trees. Exam cue: railway tracks plus wooden sleepers equals timber demand.