Rail transport—systems approach

Abstract

Rail transport is one of the most important sectors for the economies of many developed countries. Its importance can and should increase in the future. This is explained quite simply. In comparison to aviation, rail takes longer, but is significantly less expensive. Marine and river transport are great alternatives, but they are significantly slower than rail transport in moving goods to their destination. In addition, most importantly, transport via by ship often leaves goods short of their final destination, requiring further road or rail transport. Rail transport’s most serious competition comes from truck transport. However, truck transport loses its advantage when delivering cargo over long distances, particularly those in excess of 400 km. In addition, there are important environmental and safety aspects. Again, in this regard, rail transport has an edge. Thus, developed countries are interested in developing rail transport as an alternative to road transport. This entails having an effective system for delivering goods and passengers on various continents, particularly within Eurasia. It is obvious that the development of this mode of transport cannot be considered in isolation from other transport modes. For example, for the transport of passengers over long, transcontinental distances, air transport has significant advantages. However, the best way to get people and to and from airports is by rail. Similarly, the transport of large quantities of goods, such as containers, is best carried out by sea or inland waterway, particularly if there are no significant time constraints. But transport to and from the port is also often most efficient via rail. Thus, rail transport may be considered a subsystem of the intercontinental transport system. Rail transport is a highly complex system consisting of rolling stock, transport infrastructure (track facilities, energy supply systems, numerous buildings, etc.), administration, management and control services. It should be added that the manufacturer of all these elements and fulfilling their maintenance (plants, repair shops, depots, etc.), the relevant educational institutions, which are required to prepare personnel for some extent related to the rail transport.