Gauges & Tracks — Set 5

Correct Answer: B. 1.676 m

Broad Gauge is the widest and most common gauge used in India, measuring 1.676 meters. It covers the vast majority of the Indian Railways network today. This gauge provides high stability for heavy passenger and freight traffic.

Correct Answer: C. Standard Gauge

Standard Gauge (1.435 m) is the most popular gauge globally, used in most of Europe and North America. In India, it is primarily used for Metro rail projects in cities. It allows for the easy import of modern international coaches.

Correct Answer: B. 1992

Project Unigauge was launched in 1992 to convert all different gauges into a uniform Broad Gauge. This mission aims to provide seamless connectivity and higher capacity across the country. It reduces the need for changing trains due to gauge differences.

Correct Answer: B. Narrow Gauge

The Darjeeling 'Toy Train' runs on 2-foot (0.610 m) Narrow Gauge tracks. This narrow width is essential for the train to climb the sharp curves of the hills. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction.

Correct Answer: B. Ballast

Ballast consists of crushed stones that provide stability to the sleepers and ensure drainage. It helps in distributing the weight of the train evenly to the ground. Proper ballast maintenance is crucial for the safety of the tracks.

Correct Answer: C. 1.000 m

As the name suggests, a Meter Gauge track has a width of exactly 1.000 meter between the rails. Historically, it was used in many parts of India, especially in the North-East and South. Most of these lines are now being converted to Broad Gauge.

Correct Answer: C. Fishplate

Fishplates are metal plates used to join the ends of two rails to form a continuous track. They are secured with bolts and allow for small gaps for thermal expansion. Modern tracks often use welding instead of fishplates for a smoother ride.

Correct Answer: C. Sleepers

Sleepers are the transverse supports that hold the rails in place and maintain the gauge. They were traditionally made of wood but are now mostly made of pre-stressed concrete. They help in absorbing the shock and vibration of moving trains.

Correct Answer: A. Kalka-Shimla Railway

The Kalka-Shimla Railway uses the 2 feet 6 inches (0.762 m) Narrow Gauge. This allows the train to navigate the steep and winding terrain of the Himalayas. The Darjeeling and Matheran railways use an even narrower 0.610 m gauge.

Correct Answer: C. Standard Gauge

Most modern Metro systems in India adopt the 1.435 m Standard Gauge. This gauge is preferred for urban transit as it is compatible with international technology standards. It allows for tighter turns which are common in city environments.