The line graph illustrates the quantities of goods transported in the UK between 1974 and 2002 using four modes of transport.
Overall, road transport consistently accounted for the highest tonnage throughout the period, reaching around 100 million tonnes in 1998. Water transport fluctuated between 60 and 80 million tonnes, while rail transport showed a steady increase from 40 to 60 million tonnes. Pipeline transport had the lowest amount, with minimal growth from 20 to 30 million tonnes.
Road transport dominated the transportation sector, starting with approximately 70 million tonnes in 1974. By 1998, it peaked at nearly 100 million tonnes. Water transport varied between 60 and 80 million tonnes, remaining the second most utilized mode. Rail transport, initially at 40 million tonnes, gradually rose to around 60 million tonnes by 2002.
On the other hand, pipeline transport consistently carried the smallest quantity of goods, starting at around 20 million tonnes in 1974 and experiencing minimal growth to approximately 30 million tonnes by 2002. Despite its steady rise, rail transport never surpassed water transport, which fluctuated but generally maintained a higher volume throughout the period.
