Correct option is A
Ans.
(a)
The
Suez Canal connects the
Mediterranean Sea and the
Red Sea, facilitating a direct maritime route between Europe and Asia. Opened in
1869, it significantly reduced travel time by eliminating the need to navigate around Africa's Cape of Good Hope. This artificial waterway is a vital trade route for global shipping and contributes to Egypt's economy.
Information Booster
1. The Suez Canal is approximately
193 kilometers long.
2. It has no locks because the two seas it connects have nearly the same level.
3. The canal was nationalized by Egypt in
1956, leading to the Suez Crisis.
4. It accommodates about
12% of global trade, including oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
5. The canal underwent a major expansion in
2015, increasing its capacity.
6. It saves about
7,000 kilometers of travel distance for ships traveling between Europe and Asia.
7. The canal generates billions of dollars annually in revenue for Egypt.
Additional Knowledge
·
Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea: These are connected by the
Arabian Sea and are not linked directly by the Suez Canal.
·
The Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Oman: They are connected indirectly via the Suez Canal and other waterways.
·
Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea: These are connected by the
Strait of Hormuz, not the Suez Canal.
Key Points
· The Suez Canal is one of the
world’s most important artificial waterways.
· Its strategic importance has led to geopolitical conflicts and cooperation.