Page 273 - New Medley 5 Semester 2

The low cost of transport helps in the transportation of foodgrains,

agricultural raw materials and mineral ores. Special types of ships are
constructed to carry dairy products, vegetables and fruits. Many rivers

are also used by big steamers to transport men and materials.

The construction of the Suez Canal and the

Panama Canal has reduced the distance
among the Asian, European and American

countries. Today, the busiest sea route in
the world is between Western Europe and

Eastern North America. It is the North
Atlantic Sea Route.

The Suez Canal, opened in 1869, joins Suez Canal
the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.

It is 16 km long and can be crossed in about 6 hours. It has reduced the
travel time between India and the UK by two weeks.

The Panama Canal, opened in 1914, joins the Atlantic Ocean and the
Pacific Ocean. The canal is 80 km long and has special types of locks
for transporting ships. It has reduced travel time between the east and

the west coasts of the USA.

Communication

We exchange information and ideas with our relatives and friends. This is
known as communication. Early humans communicated through sounds

and gestures. They also used symbols and drew pictures on the cave walls.
Later on, humans developed languages and then writing to communicate.

The art of writing through symbols and alphabets developed around
5000 years ago. Initially, clay tablets and later on palm leaves were used

for recording thoughts. Paper and printing machines brought a turning
point in the system of communication. The mass production of books,

magazines and newspapers helped in communication.

Initially, messages were sent and received with the help of pigeons and

couriers. Later on, animals, especially horses, were used for carrying

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