Light Rail and Trams PDF

Light Rail and Trams Mukesh Kumar Professor/Rolling Stock 1  TRAM 2 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Introduction A rail vehicle or multiple train unit that...

Light Rail and Trams Mukesh Kumar Professor/Rolling Stock 1  TRAM 2 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Introduction A rail vehicle or multiple train unit that travels on tramway tracks on public urban streets and may include segments on segregated right-of-way. A tram, also known as a streetcar or trolley in North America, is a type of public transport vehicle that typically runs on tracks laid along city streets. It is usually powered by electricity supplied through overhead wires. Trams are designed to transport passengers within urban areas, making them a vital part of public transit systems in many cities around the world. 3 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Tram 4 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Characteristics of Trams Power Source: Most trams operate using electric power, which is often drawn from overhead lines via a pantograph. Some older systems may utilize trolley poles or a third rail for power supply. Track System: Trams run on tracks that are either embedded in the street or have dedicated rights-of-way. This allows them to navigate urban environments efficiently, often sharing space with other vehicles but sometimes operating on segregated tracks. 5 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Characteristics of Trams Design and Capacity: Trams are generally lighter and shorter than traditional trains, allowing them to stop frequently and accommodate a high volume of passengers. Modern trams can be articulated, meaning they consist of multiple sections connected by flexible joints, enhancing their capacity and maneuverability. 6 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Development of Tram Systems in India Kolkata: The Calcutta Tramway Company was established in 1880, and by the end of the 19th century, it had expanded significantly, operating 166 tram cars and using both horses and steam locomotives for transport. The transition to electric trams began in 1900, with the first electric tram running in 1902, making Kolkata the first city in Asia to have an electric tram service. Mumbai: The Bombay Tramway Company was formed in 1873, and the first horse-drawn trams began operations in 1874. Electric trams were introduced in 1907, but the tram system gradually declined, with services ceasing in 1964 as buses and suburban railways became more popular. 7 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Development of Tram Systems in India Chennai (Madras): The first horse-drawn tram service in Madras began in 1874, followed by the introduction of electric trams in 1895. The tram system peaked in 1921 but was discontinued in 1953 due to financial difficulties. Other Cities: Trams were also introduced in cities like Nashik, Kanpur, and Delhi. Nashik's tram service began in 1889 and ended in 1933, while Kanpur's trams operated from 1907 until 1933. Delhi's tram service started in 1908 and was discontinued in 1963. 8 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Applications of Trams Trams, also known as streetcars or trolleys, have a range of applications and benefits in urban transportation systems. Their uses are often similar to those of light rail transit (LRT) but can also differ based on design and operational characteristics. Here’s an overview of their applications and advantages: 1. Urban Transit Integration with City Streets: Trams typically run on tracks embedded in city streets, making them ideal for urban environments. They provide a frequent and reliable means of transportation in dense, congested areas. Mixed Traffic: Unlike dedicated light rail lines, trams often share road space with other vehicles, which can be both an advantage (flexibility) and a challenge (potential delays). 2. Connecting Key Areas Neighbourhoods and Business Districts: Trams connect residential areas with commercial, cultural, and recreational districts, enhancing overall urban connectivity. 9 www.delhimetro.com  Applications of Trams Local Accessibility: They often serve shorter distances compared to heavy rail systems, making them suitable for local and intra-city travel. 3. Environmental Benefits Reduction in Emissions: Like LRT systems, trams are typically electric, which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution if the electricity is sourced from renewable energy. Encouragement of Sustainable Transport: Their use can help shift more people from cars to public transport, contributing to a reduction in overall vehicle emissions. 4. Economic and Urban Development Stimulating Local Economies: The presence of a tram system can boost local businesses and property values by increasing foot traffic and improving access. 10 www.delhimetro.com  Applications of Trams Supporting Regeneration: Trams can play a role in urban regeneration projects, helping to revitalize neglected or underdeveloped areas. 5. Cost Considerations Investment and Maintenance: Trams generally require less infrastructure investment compared to heavy rail or subway systems, but more than traditional buses. They can also be cost-effective in terms of operation and maintenance. 6. Integration with Other Transport Modes: Seamless Connections: Trams can be integrated with other forms of transport, such as buses, trains, and bicycles, to create a comprehensive transit network. Multi-Modal Hubs: Tram stops are often designed to facilitate easy transfers to other modes of transportation. 11 www.delhimetro.com  Applications of Trams 7. Quality of Life Improvements Reduced Traffic Congestion: By providing a reliable alternative to private vehicles, trams help to alleviate traffic congestion and improve overall urban mobility. Enhanced Urban Environment: Tram systems can encourage a more pedestrian-friendly urban environment, contributing to a higher quality of life. 8. Accessibility and Inclusivity Design Features: Modern trams are designed to be accessible to all passengers, including those with disabilities, with features like low floors, ramps, and adequate space for wheelchairs. 9. Historical and Cultural Significance Cultural Heritage: In many cities, trams are an iconic part of the urban landscape with historical and cultural significance, often serving as a symbol of city pride. 12 www.delhimetro.com  Applications of Trams 10. Tourism Attraction: In some cities, trams are not just a mode of transport but also a tourist attraction, offering scenic routes and a nostalgic experience. In summary, trams are a versatile and effective mode of urban transportation with applications that span from enhancing local connectivity and supporting economic development to contributing to environmental sustainability and improving the quality of urban life. Their integration into city transit systems depends on factors such as the urban layout, existing infrastructure, and specific transportation needs. 13 www.delhimetro.com  LIGHT RAIL 14 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Introduction Light rail is a type of urban rail transit system that is designed for relatively short distances and frequent stops within cities or metropolitan areas. It usually operates on tracks that are either at street level or slightly elevated, though it can also run underground in some cases. 15 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Light rail 16 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Characteristics of Light Rail Capacity and Speed: Light rail systems generally have a higher capacity and speed than streetcars but lower than heavy rail systems. They are capable of carrying more passengers than streetcars while operating at faster speeds over longer distances in urban areas. Infrastructure: Light rail vehicles (LRVs) often run on dedicated rights-of-way, which may be separated from other traffic, allowing for smoother and faster transit. However, they can also share streets with other vehicles in certain areas, particularly in downtown settings. 17 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Characteristics of Light Rail Flexibility: Modern light rail systems are versatile in their design and can operate in various environments, including street-level, elevated, or underground sections. This flexibility allows them to adapt to the urban landscape while providing efficient service. Electric Power: Most light rail systems are powered by electricity, typically sourced from overhead wires. This makes them more environmentally friendly compared to diesel-powered transit options. 18 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Applications of Light Rail System Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems offer several benefits and applications across urban and suburban environments. Here are some key applications and advantages of LRT: 1. Urban Transportation: LRT systems are effective in densely populated urban areas where space is limited. They help reduce traffic congestion by providing a reliable, frequent alternative to cars and buses. 2. Connectivity: LRT systems can connect key areas within a city, such as business districts, residential neighborhoods, and major transit hubs, enhancing overall mobility. 3. Environmental Benefits: LRT is often powered by electricity, which can be generated from renewable sources. This helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution compared to diesel- powered buses or cars. 19 www.delhimetro.com  Applications of Light Rail System 4. Economic Development: The presence of an LRT system can stimulate local economic growth by increasing accessibility to businesses, boosting property values, and attracting investment. 5. Cost Efficiency: Compared to heavy rail or subway systems, LRT typically requires lower capital investment and can be less expensive to operate and maintain, making it a cost-effective option for many cities. 6. Integration with Other Modes: LRT systems can be integrated with other transportation modes, such as buses, bicycles, and pedestrian paths, creating a comprehensive and efficient multi-modal transit network. 7. Land Use and Planning: LRT encourages higher-density development and can help shape urban growth patterns. It supports mixed-use development, where residential, commercial, and recreational spaces are conveniently located near transit stops. 820 www.delhimetro.com  Applications of Light Rail System 8. Travel Time: LRT can offer faster travel times compared to road- based transportation, particularly during peak hours, by using dedicated tracks that avoid road traffic congestion. 9. Accessibility: Modern LRT systems are designed to be accessible to people with disabilities, with features like low-floor vehicles and elevators at stations. 10. Quality of Life: LRT improves the quality of life by providing a reliable and pleasant mode of transport, reducing travel stress, and fostering a more walkable city environment. In summary, LRT systems are versatile tools for improving urban transit, supporting economic development, and contributing to more sustainable cities. Their application can vary widely depending on the specific needs and characteristics of a region. 21 www.delhimetro.com  Key Differences Between Trams and Light Rail Degree of Segregation from Traffic Trams typically operate in mixed traffic on city streets, sharing lanes with cars. Light rail has a higher degree of segregation, with dedicated rights- of-way and fewer road crossings. Speed and Capacity Trams have lower speeds and capacity compared to light rail. Light rail can achieve higher speeds and carry more passengers per vehicle. Infrastructure Costs Trams have lower infrastructure costs since they can use existing streets. Light rail requires more dedicated infrastructure like elevated sections or tunnels, making it more expensive to build. 22 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Key Differences Between Trams and Light Rail Passenger Experience Trams are more integrated into the urban environment and stops are closer together Light rail has a more "rail-like" experience with fewer stops and higher speeds. Terminology The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but in North America "light rail" is more common for newer systems In Europe, "tram" is more widely used, with "light rail" referring to systems with a higher degree of segregation 23 www.delhimetrorail.com/academy  Thank You for Giving me an opportunity for sharing my views 24