Transport modes in India: Which of the following systems is not used for the conveyance of passengers in India?

Introduction / Context:
India employs multiple transport modes for passenger movement: railways, roads, civil aviation, and coastal/inland waterways (shipping). Understanding what counts as a passenger mode clarifies planning priorities and infrastructure investments.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are concerned with systems carrying passengers in routine public service.
• Pipelines primarily carry fluids and gases.
• Shipping includes ferries and cruise/liner services for people.

Concept / Approach:

Passenger transport modes must support boarding, seating, tickets, and safety systems for people. Railways, roads (buses, taxis), shipping (ferries), and airlines obviously satisfy this. Pipelines are engineered for commodities (petroleum, gas, water, slurry) and do not carry passengers.

Step-by-Step Reasoning:

Verification / Alternative check:

National transport statistics and policy documents classify pipelines strictly as freight/utility networks, not passenger systems.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Railways, roads, shipping, airlines: core passenger modes with established public services across India.

Common Pitfalls:

• Assuming “shipping” is freight-only; India operates passenger ferries in several states.

Final Answer:

Pipe lines.