Modern transport in Asia
Transport is the movement of people and goods from one place to another. Advances in technology have made transport in Asia faster, more efficient and more comfortable. Modern transport is divided into land, water and air transport.
Key idea
Modern transport saves time, links cities and countries, and boosts trade.
Types of modern transport
- Land — expressways, high-speed rail such as the Shinkansen in Japan, and urban transit systems such as the MRT and LRT.
- Water — container ships carry bulk goods across the sea at low cost for heavy cargo.
- Air — the aeroplane is the fastest transport for long distances.
- Pipeline — carries oil and gas continuously.
Importance and challenges
Modern transport boosts trade, tourism and links between Asian countries. However, the rising use of vehicles causes air pollution and traffic congestion in big cities.
Remember
The aeroplane is fastest but costly; the ship is cheapest for heavy, bulky goods.