breedspoor

Breedspoor (Dutch for "broad gauge") is the term used in railway terminology to describe track gauges wider than the standard gauge of 1,435 millimeters (4 ft 8 1/2 in). Broad gauges are chosen to accommodate larger loading gauges, heavier axle loads, or improved stability on certain routes; they also reflect historical development and national preferences. The trade-off is reduced interoperability with standard-gauge networks and higher costs for rolling stock and infrastructure.

Global practice varies, with several broad gauges in use around the world. Common examples include 1,668 mm Iberian gauge used in Spain and Portugal; 1,520 mm Russian gauge used across Russia, Ukraine, Finland, and other states; and 1,676 mm Indian gauge used in the Indian subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and parts of neighboring regions). Some areas maintain multiple gauges or employ dual-gauge or gauge-changing technologies to allow cross-border traffic.

Historical context shows broad gauges emerged early in railway development. In Britain, the Great Western Railway operated a broad gauge of 7 ft 0 1/4 in (2140 mm) before a gradual conversion to standard gauge in the late 19th century. Later, policy and economics led many regions to standardize, while others continued with broad gauge or developed methods to bridge different gauges.

Today, breedspoor networks remain essential in several countries, while others pursue gauge conversion, dual-gauge infrastructure, or rolling-stock solutions to improve interoperability with neighboring standard-gauge corridors.