What were the main trade routes in the British Raj?

During the British Raj, which lasted from 1858 to 1947, several main trade routes were established to facilitate trade and commerce within the Indian subcontinent and between India and other parts of the British Empire. These trade routes played a crucial role in the economic development and integration of the region.

1. Grand Trunk Road: The Grand Trunk Road, also known as the GT Road, was one of the oldest and most significant trade routes during the British Raj. It stretched over 2,500 kilometers, connecting the eastern and western regions of the Indian subcontinent. The road facilitated trade between major cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, and Lahore, and served as a vital link for the transportation of goods, including textiles, spices, and agricultural products.

2. Indus Valley Route: The Indus Valley Route was another important trade route during the British Raj. It connected the major cities of Punjab, such as Lahore and Amritsar, with the Indus River and the ports of Karachi and Bombay (now Mumbai). This route facilitated the trade of goods, particularly agricultural produce, between the fertile Indus Valley and the coastal regions.

3. Calcutta to Yangon Route: This trade route connected the major port city of Calcutta (now Kolkata) in British India with Yangon (formerly Rangoon) in British Burma (now Myanmar). It played a crucial role in the trade of commodities such as rice, timber, and teak between the two regions.

4. Bombay to Aden Route: The Bombay to Aden route connected the major port of Bombay (now Mumbai) in British India with the port city of Aden in present-day Yemen. This route facilitated trade between India and the Middle East, serving as a crucial link for the transportation of goods such as textiles, spices, and precious metals.

5. Silk Route: Although not exclusive to the British Raj, the Silk Route played a significant role in the trade between India and Central Asia. This ancient trade route connected India with regions like Afghanistan, Iran, and China, facilitating the exchange of silk, spices, precious stones, and other luxury goods.

These trade routes, among others, formed a complex network that allowed for the movement of goods, capital, and ideas across the British Raj. They played a vital role in shaping the economic landscape of the region and contributed to the integration of various cultures and economies.