LIGHT RAILWAY Meaning and
Definition
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A light railway, also known as a tramway or streetcar system, is a mode of urban transportation that uses electric-powered rail vehicles to carry passengers within a city or its suburbs. Light railways typically operate on dedicated tracks, which are often laid down on the streets or separate rights-of-way. These track configurations allow light railways to smoothly navigate through busy urban areas, while minimizing traffic congestion and offering a more reliable means of transport.
Compared to heavy rail systems, such as metros and commuter trains, light railways are characterized by their lighter vehicles and lower passenger capacity. Light railway vehicles are usually designed to operate at lower speeds and can feature single or double-car units. They are propelled by electricity drawn from overhead wires or other power sources in the track. In some cases, light railways may also have battery-powered or hybrid vehicles, enabling them to operate in areas where overhead wires are impractical or visually disruptive.
Light railways provide a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation solution for urban areas, offering frequent and accessible service for shorter distances. They are often favored as a means of public transport, as they reduce the reliance on private vehicles, contribute to easing traffic congestion, and contribute to the reduction of air pollution and carbon emissions. Additionally, light railways can bring social and economic benefits by connecting various neighborhoods and districts, facilitating urban development, and improving accessibility to businesses, educational institutions, and recreational areas.
Common Misspellings for LIGHT RAILWAY
- kight railway
- pight railway
- oight railway
- lught railway
- ljght railway
- lkght railway
- loght railway
- l9ght railway
- l8ght railway
- lifht railway
- livht railway
- libht railway
- lihht railway
- liyht railway
- litht railway
- liggt railway
- ligbt railway
- lignt railway
- ligjt railway
- ligut railway
Etymology of LIGHT RAILWAY
The word "light railway" derives from the combination of two separate words:
1. Light: The term "light" in this context refers to a railway system that is lighter and less substantial in terms of infrastructure compared to traditional heavy rail systems. It originated from the adjective "light", meaning something that is not heavy or has less weight. In the context of railways, "light" refers to tracks, rolling stock, and various components that are lighter and less robust compared to those used in heavy rail systems.
2. Railway: The word "railway" stems from the combination of "rail" and "way". "Rail" refers to the parallel tracks made of steel or other material on which the trains run. It comes from the Old French word "reille", which means a "bar of wood or iron". "Way" signifies a path or route on which something moves or travels.
