The various physical and economic factors responsible for the distribution pattern of the railway network in our country were as follows: Physiographic Factors: (i) The northern plains are vast level lands. They provided the most favourable lands to lay down railway tracks. (ii) In the hilly regions of peninsular India, railway tracks were laid through low hills, tunnels and gaps which increased the cost of construction. (iii) Due to high relief, sparse population and Lick of economic opportunities, the Himalayan mountainous regions were unfavourable for the construction of railway lines. (iv) The desert region of West Rajasthan didn't allow railway lines to develop in their region as well. (v) Similarly, the swampy lands of Gujarat and the forested tracks of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Orissa and Jharkhand were not suitable to construct railway tracks. Economic Factors: (i) Railways are the principal mode of transportation for freight and passengers. (ii) The northern plains have high population density and rich agricultural resources. This increases the demand for railways. (iii) The peninsular plateau region is also rich in mineral resources. As a result, railway tracks are spread over this region. (iv) The industrial region of the country is directly linked with the railways as well