Lightrail is a form of urban transportation that runs on tracks elevated above the ground or at street level. Its spelling follows the phonetic pattern of the English language. The word lightrail is pronounced as /ˈlaɪt.reɪl/, where "ligh" sounds like "lie" and "rail" rhymes with "male". The word is a combination of "light" and "rail", indicating its low-impact nature in terms of ease of construction and its capacity to connect different parts of a city. Lightrail systems are widely used in many cities as efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
Light rail, also spelled as light-rail or referred to as tram or trolley, is a mode of urban transportation system that utilizes electric-powered trains or trams to carry passengers within a city or its surrounding suburbs. It is commonly distinguished from heavy rail systems, such as subways or metros, due to its smaller size, lower capacity, and operation primarily on or near the surface level of roadways, although it also includes elevated or underground sections in certain areas.
Typically, light rail vehicles are designed to run on tracks laid exclusively for their use or sometimes share the road with regular vehicular traffic. These tracks are often separated or segregated from other road lanes, enabling the light rail system to operate more efficiently and provide a dedicated route for passenger travel. The trains can be single-car or composed of multiple articulated cars, accommodating a considerable number of passengers at a time.
Light rail systems are known for their accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and lower environmental impact compared to heavy rail counterparts. They often serve as a crucial component of public transportation networks, helping to reduce road congestion, promote sustainable mobility, and improve connectivity within an urban region. The stations along a light rail line are strategically located, usually at key points within the city, to enhance convenience and facilitate easy transfers between different transportation modes.
Overall, light rail plays a significant role in expanding urban mobility options, encouraging public transit usage, and contributing to the efficient and sustainable movement of people within cities.
The term "lightrail" is a compound word formed by combining the words "light" and "rail". "Light", in this context, refers to the mode of transportation being lighter and more nimble than traditional heavy rail systems like subways or commuter trains. It typically implies a smaller scale and more flexible infrastructure. The word "rail" refers to the tracks on which the light rail vehicles operate, distinguishing it from other forms of transportation like buses. The term "lightrail" came into use in the late 20th century to describe these urban transit systems that utilize light rail vehicles on dedicated tracks.