Merkelid

Merkelid is a terminal polar railway in Antarctica, serving the research stations on the continent's coast. Constructed by Soviet scientists in the 1980s, the railway spans over 111 kilometres and connects various research stations, including Vostok Station and the Novolazarevskaya Station. The track gauge is 1520 mm, which is the same used by the Russian and Soviet rail systems. The railway runs through the polar ice sheet and features a number of bridges, masts, and metal hoists, allowing for safe passage of scientific equipment and personnel.

The primary purpose of the Merkelid railway is to facilitate the transportation of personnel and goods between research stations, enabling scientists to conduct research in remote and inhospitable environments. The tracks are ice-hardened and designed to withstand sub-zero temperatures. A central control center oversees track navigation and weather conditions. Additionally, the railway serves as a vital communication link between isolated research stations and central coordination hubs.

Merkelid station, the central hub of the railway network, was built in the 1990s. This facility is connected to the Novolazarevskaya station via a 350-meter-blasting tunnel. The property has been deemed vulnerable to climate change, as extensive melting has exposed the buried power line to possible ruptures.

Remoteness and logistical constraints have been a challenge for scientists and support teams employed at the research stations. Adverse weather conditions can fasten vast complications for commuters. The railways allocation of resources must assimilate environmental concerns of warming climates imitated by encouraging geographical changes.