Q. Among the following cities, which one lies on a longitude closest to that of Delhi? (UPSC Prelims 2018)
Answer:
Bengaluru
Notes: The correct answer is
[A] Bengaluru. While Bengaluru is geographically far to the south of Delhi, they are remarkably aligned in terms of their vertical (longitudinal) position on the map of India.
- Delhi's Longitude: Approximately 77.10° E.
- Bengaluru's Longitude: Approximately 77.59° E. The difference is only about 0.49°, making it the closest among the given options.
- Hyderabad (Option B): Located at approximately 78.48° E. It lies further east of the Delhi meridian by about 1.38°.
- Nagpur (Option C): Located at approximately 79.08° E. It is even further east, situated near the center of the country.
- Pune (Option D): Located at approximately 73.85° E. It lies significantly to the west of Delhi's longitudinal line.
Comparative Longitudes:
| City | Approximate Longitude | Relative Position to Delhi |
| Delhi | 77.1° E | Reference |
| Bengaluru | 77.6° E | 0.5° East |
| Hyderabad | 78.5° E | 1.4° East |
| Nagpur | 79.1° E | 2.0° East |
| Pune | 73.9° E | 3.2° West |