laiarööpmelised

Laiarööpmelised refers to railways with a track gauge wider than standard gauge. In many parts of the world, especially in Eastern Europe, Russia, and Central Asia, a gauge of 1520 mm (or 1524 mm) is prevalent, which is wider than the 1435 mm standard gauge used in much of Western Europe, North America, and China. This difference in track width is a significant factor in international rail transport, often requiring trains to be re-gauged or transhipped at border crossings. The wider gauge offers certain advantages, such as greater stability at high speeds and the ability to carry heavier loads. Historically, the adoption of different gauges was influenced by various factors, including technological development, military considerations, and national standardization efforts. The existence of multiple broad gauges necessitates complex logistical solutions for cross-border freight and passenger services, impacting efficiency and cost. Ongoing discussions and projects aim to address these gauge disparities, but the extensive existing infrastructure and the cost of conversion mean that wide gauge railways will continue to be a prominent feature of the global rail network for the foreseeable future.