Explanation: NH-1 is one of the most important national highways in India, forming a part of the Golden Quadrilateral network. This network is a series of highways that connect the four major metropolitan cities of India: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. NH-1 specifically connects Kolkata in the eastern part of India to Amritsar in the north-western part of the country.
The Golden Quadrilateral network was initiated in 2001 with the aim of improving the connectivity between these major cities and boosting economic activity. NH-1 is a crucial part of this network, as it facilitates the movement of goods and people between the eastern and north-western regions of India. The highway passes through several important cities and states, including West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab.
It is important to note that NH-1 is not the only highway connecting these regions. Other major highways like NH-2, NH-4, and NH-8 also play significant roles in connecting different parts of the country. NH-2 connects Kolkata to New Delhi, NH-4 connects Kolkata to Mumbai, and NH-8 connects Mumbai to New Delhi. Each of these highways serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall transportation infrastructure of India.
Understanding the routes of these national highways is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and Bank PO, as questions related to Indian geography and transportation networks are frequently asked. It is also important to remember the specific endpoints of each highway to avoid confusion and ensure accurate responses in examinations.
In summary, NH-1 is a vital national highway that connects Kolkata to Amritsar, serving as a key route for transportation and economic activity between the eastern and north-western parts of India.