Bandoengchauge

Bandoengchauge is a term that refers to a specific type of railway gauge, which is the distance between the inner rails of a railway track. The term "Bandoengchauge" is derived from the Dutch word "band" meaning strip or band, and "douwe" meaning to bend or curve. This gauge is also known as the Cape gauge, and it is 3 feet 6 inches (1,067 mm) wide. This gauge was originally used in the Cape Colony of South Africa, and it was later adopted in other parts of Africa, including Kenya and Tanzania.

The Bandoengchauge was introduced in the Cape Colony in the late 19th century to accommodate the narrow-gauge rolling stock that was already in use. The gauge was chosen because it allowed for the use of existing equipment and infrastructure, while also providing a wider gauge than the standard narrow gauge of 2 feet 6 inches (762 mm). The Bandoengchauge was used extensively in the Cape Colony and its neighboring territories, and it played a significant role in the development of the region's railway network.

The Bandoengchauge is still in use today, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania, where it is used for both passenger and freight services. The gauge is also used in some parts of South Africa, where it is known as the Cape gauge. Despite its age, the Bandoengchauge remains an important part of the region's railway infrastructure, and it continues to play a vital role in the transportation of goods and people.