Q. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe.
Statement-II: Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Correct answer: (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation :
Sumed Pipeline
1. Statement-I asserts that the Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe. This is accurate as the pipeline serves as a major conduit for transporting crude oil from the Middle East to European markets, bypassing the limitations of the Suez Canal for fully loaded supertankers.
2. Statement-II states that the Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea. This is also true; the pipeline runs from Ain Sukhna on the Gulf of Suez to Sidi Kerir on the Mediterranean coast, providing a crucial link for oil shipments.
Thus, the correct answer is: (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I.
