The Trans-Siberian Railway

The total length of the Trans-Siberian line is nearly 9,600 km. That is the world's longest railway.

The construction of the Trans-Siberian line began in 1891 and it was put into operation in 1905. However, the railway was poorly built and accidents often took place.

The reconstruction of the Trans-Siberian Railway began after 1917. Now most of the line is electric. All freight and passenger trains are operated by powerful diesel and electric locomotives.

The Trans-Siberian Railway plays a very important part in the economic development of our country because it carries a large volume of traffic. It also acts as an international container service between Europe and Japan.

Great changes will take place on the Trans-Siberian Railway in the future. Faster locomotives will be put into service. Automation and efficient electronic computers will provide a safer transportation of freight and passengers.

Underground Railways

The underground railways as a kind of city transport appeared in the second half of the 19th century. The first underground system was proposed for London by Charles Pearson in 1843. But most people criticized the project. Indeed, when constructed, the Metropolitan line was not a success.

While travelling public experienced many discomforts. The tunnels were made as small as possible in order to reduce construction costs. The coaches themselves were small and narrow. The small windows in the trains were made in the roof so that passengers could not see anything. The oil and gas lamps used gave little light. So passengers wishing to read, while travelling, had to take candles with them. Besides, the steam locomotives filled the tunnels with steam and smoke. It was this discomfort that later on made engineers introduce electric traction for hauling trains on underground railways.

When put into service, electric trains eliminated steam and smoke and ensured a much more frequent service for passengers. Since that time the construction of great rapid subway systems in such great cities as London, New York, Berlin and Moscow has become practical.

<== попередня сторінка	\|	наступна сторінка ==>
NATASHA'S UNIVERSITY	\|	London Underground

Не знайшли потрібну інформацію? Скористайтесь пошуком google:

Генерація сторінки за: 0.004 сек.