British-built railways in India helped the British to make money and maintain order and, as a by-product, served to unite the country, ripe for independence.

In this quote, Michael Portillo reflects on the role of British-built railways in India during the colonial era. He suggests that the primary purpose of the railways was to help the British make money and maintain control over their vast colony. The rail network allowed the British to move goods and resources efficiently, which was essential for sustaining the economic benefits of colonial rule, and also facilitated the movement of military forces to keep order in the region.

However, Portillo also notes that as a by-product, the railways unintentionally contributed to the unity of India. While the primary intent was economic and political control, the rail system helped connect diverse regions and cultures within the subcontinent. This infrastructure allowed for greater communication, trade, and interaction between different parts of the country, laying the groundwork for a more unified nation.

Portillo’s statement also alludes to the historical irony that the railways, which were built to strengthen British control, ended up helping to foster the conditions for Indian independence. By uniting the country and facilitating a sense of national cohesion, the railways became an important tool for the growth of Indian nationalism. As the country moved towards independence, the railway network served as a symbol of the interconnectedness of the nation and the potential for collective action.

Ultimately, the quote highlights how colonial infrastructure, like the railways, had unintended consequences that contributed to the eventual rise of Indian nationalism and the push for independence. While the British intended the railways to solidify their control, they inadvertently played a role in creating the conditions that made independence a reality for India.