UPSC Prelims 2007 · General Studies

Question 23: Geography

Which one of the following countries is planning to construct a rival to the Panama Canal to link the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans?

aColombia

bCosta Rica

cGuatemala

dNicaragua

AnswerThe answer is (d).

Nicaragua has long planned a canal across its territory, using Lake Nicaragua, to link the Pacific and Atlantic oceans and rival the Panama Canal. The idea was revived around 2006, and a Chinese-backed concession followed in 2013. The Panama Canal, opened in 1914, is the existing route. The other countries named have no comparable plan.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Colombia is not the country behind this canal plan.
(b) Costa Rica is not the country behind this canal plan.
(c) Guatemala is not the country behind this canal plan.
(d) Correct: Nicaragua planned the rival canal.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2007, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.