Elevated railway

Railway system built on elevated structures

An elevated railway (also known as an el train or overhead railway) is a type of rail transport system where the tracks are built above street level, typically on a viaduct or other elevated structure. This design allows trains to bypass street traffic, providing a faster and more efficient mode of urban transportation.

History

The Liverpool Overhead Railway, one of the earliest elevated railways.

The concept of elevated railways dates back to the 19th century. One of the earliest examples was the Liverpool Overhead Railway, which opened in 1893. It was the world's first electric elevated railway and served as a model for future systems.

In the United States, the first elevated railway was the New York Elevated Railroad, which began operations in 1868. This system used steam-powered trains and was later electrified. Elevated railways became popular in major cities like Chicago, where the famous "L" (short for "elevated") system was developed.

Design and Construction

A modern elevated railway in Chicago.

Elevated railways are typically constructed using steel or concrete viaducts. The tracks are supported by columns or piers, which are spaced at regular intervals along the route. This design minimizes the impact on street-level traffic and allows for the efficient movement of trains above the city.

The construction of elevated railways requires careful planning to integrate with existing urban infrastructure. Considerations include the height of the viaducts, the noise generated by trains, and the visual impact on the cityscape.

Advantages

Elevated railways offer several advantages over other forms of urban transportation:

• Reduced Traffic Congestion: By operating above street level, elevated railways avoid interference with road traffic, reducing congestion and improving travel times.
• Efficient Land Use: Elevated tracks make use of vertical space, allowing for more efficient use of land in densely populated urban areas.
• Improved Safety: With tracks separated from street level, there is a reduced risk of accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles.

Challenges

Despite their benefits, elevated railways also present challenges:

• Noise Pollution: Trains running on elevated tracks can generate significant noise, which may affect nearby residents.
• Visual Impact: The presence of elevated structures can alter the aesthetic of a city, sometimes leading to public opposition.
• Maintenance Costs: Elevated structures require regular maintenance to ensure safety and reliability.

Modern Examples

The BTS Skytrain in Bangkok, Thailand.

Today, elevated railways are found in cities around the world. Notable examples include the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok, the Kochi Metro in India, and the São Paulo Metro in Brazil.

A train on the Kochi Metro, India.

These modern systems often incorporate advanced technologies such as automated train control and energy-efficient designs. They continue to play a vital role in urban transportation, providing a reliable and efficient means of moving people across cities.

Related pages

• Subway
• Monorail
• Light rail
• Tram