What is rapid transit, and what are its common alternative names?

Rapid transit, also known as mass rapid transit (MRT) or rail rapid transit (RRT), is a high-capacity public transport system typically found in urban areas. It is commonly referred to as a metro. In North America, a frequent alternative term for rapid transit is 'heavy rail'.

What are some regional names for underground rapid transit systems?

Underground rapid transit lines, which are grade-separated and run through tunnels, are regionally known by various names. These include 'subway,' 'tube,' 'metro,' or 'underground.' In German-speaking regions, it's called 'U-Bahn' (Untergrundbahn), and in Swedish, it's 'Tunnelbana' or 'T-bana'.

How are elevated rapid transit systems referred to in different regions?

When rapid transit systems are grade-separated on elevated railways, they are sometimes called 'el trains' (short for 'elevated') or 'skytrains.' Other terms include 'overhead,' 'overground,' or 'Hochbahn' in German. These terms may apply to an entire system, even if significant portions run at ground level.

What are the fundamental operational characteristics of modern rapid transit systems?

Modern rapid transit systems typically consist of electric railways that operate on an exclusive right-of-way, meaning pedestrians or other vehicles cannot access their tracks. Services are provided on designated lines between stations, usually utilizing electric multiple units on railway tracks. Stations commonly feature high platforms without steps inside the trains, necessitating custom-made trains to minimize gaps between the train and the platform for passenger safety and ease of access.

What alternative technologies are sometimes employed in rapid transit systems?

While most rapid transit systems use conventional railway tracks, some incorporate alternative technologies. These include guided rubber tires, magnetic levitation (maglev), or monorail systems, offering different operational characteristics and infrastructure requirements.

How are rapid transit systems typically integrated with other public transport services?

Rapid transit systems are generally integrated with other forms of public transport, such as buses or trams, and are often operated by the same public transport authorities. This integration aims to create a cohesive network, allowing passengers to easily transfer between different modes of transport to reach their destinations.

When and where did the world's first rapid transit system open?

The world's first rapid transit system was the Metropolitan Railway in London, which opened in 1863. This system was partially underground and initially utilized steam locomotives for power.

What was the first elevated railway system in New York, and how was it powered initially?

New York's first elevated railway was the West Side and Yonkers Patent Railway, which opened in 1868. It was initially a cable-hauled line, powered by stationary steam engines.

How is the term 'subway' generally understood in most of Britain?

In most of Britain, the term 'subway' typically refers to a pedestrian underpass, rather than an underground rail system. The London Underground is specifically known as the 'Underground' or 'Tube'.

What are the common terms for rapid transit systems in France and the Netherlands?

In large French cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, the term 'métro' is used for their rapid transit systems. Smaller French cities like Lille and Rennes also have light metro systems. Similarly, Brussels in Belgium, and Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands, use 'métro' or 'metro' for their systems.

Which Southern European countries use the terms 'metro' or 'metropolitana' for their rapid transit systems, and where are these systems located?

Several Southern European countries use the term 'metro' in the Iberian Peninsula, including Spain (Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia) and Portugal (Lisbon). In Italy, the term 'metropolitana' is used for rapid transit systems found in cities such as Catania, Genoa, Milan, Naples, Rome, Brescia, and Turin.

How are rapid transit systems referred to in Germany and Austria, and what other rail systems often support them?

In Germany and Austria, rapid transit systems are known as 'U-Bahn' (Untergrundbahn). These systems are frequently supported by 'S-Bahn' systems, which are typically suburban rail networks. German U-Bahn systems are found in Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Nuremberg, and Fürth, while Vienna has an U-Bahn in Austria.

What are some examples of rapid transit terminology used in North America?

In North America, various terms describe rapid transit. 'Metro' is used for non-English systems like the Mexico City Metro and Montreal Metro, as well as some English ones such as the Los Angeles Metro Rail and Washington Metro. Elevated systems are often called 'the El,' 'the L,' or a 'skytrain,' exemplified by the Chicago 'L' and Vancouver Sky Train. Boston's system is known as 'The T,' Atlanta's as 'MARTA,' and the San Francisco Bay Area's as 'BART.' The New York City Subway and Toronto Subway are primarily referred to as 'the subway,' despite having significant above-ground sections.

When and where was the first underground urban railway opened in Latin America?

The first stretch of underground urban railway in Latin America opened in Buenos Aires in 1913, as part of Line A of the Buenos Aires Underground. Its inauguration was attended by Vice President Victorino de la Plaza.

What does the acronym 'MRT' stand for in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, and how does its meaning vary?

In most of Southeast Asia and Taiwan, rapid transit systems are primarily known by the acronym 'MRT.' The specific meaning of MRT varies by country: in Indonesia, it stands for 'Moda Raya Terpadu' (Integrated Mass [Transit] Mode); in the Philippines, it means 'Metro Rail Transit'; and in Thailand, it is 'Metropolitan Rapid Transit' (formerly 'Mass Rapid Transit'). In Kaohsiung and Taoyuan, Taiwan, as well as Singapore and Malaysia, MRT stands for 'Mass Rapid Transit'.

What marked the beginning of rapid transit, and what early power sources were used?

The beginning of rapid transit was marked by the opening of London's Metropolitan Railway in 1863, which was steam-hauled. Early experiences with steam engines were unpleasant due to ventilation issues, and experiments with pneumatic railways for extended city adoption were unsuccessful.

Which railway was the first electric-traction rapid transit system, and what term did it introduce?

The City & South London Railway, opened in 1890, was the world's first electric-traction rapid transit railway and was fully underground. Prior to its opening, it was intended to be called the 'City and South London Subway,' thereby introducing the term 'Subway' into railway terminology.

How did rapid transit technology spread globally after its initial development?

Rapid transit technology quickly spread to cities across Europe, the United States, Argentina, and Canada. Many railways were either converted from steam power to electric, or new systems were purpose-designed and built to be electric from their inception, including those in Budapest, Chicago, Glasgow, Boston, Buenos Aires, and New York City.

What advancements in rapid transit technology have emerged over time, including hybrid solutions?

Technological advancements have led to new automated services in rapid transit. Hybrid solutions have also evolved, such as tram-trains, which combine features of trams and trains, and premetro systems, which integrate some characteristics of rapid transit into tram networks.

Why did Australian cities initially opt for tram systems over underground train systems, and when did this perspective change?

Australian cities initially favored tram systems due to low population density and urban sprawl, which made extensive underground train systems less viable. However, since the 1970s, the feasibility of underground train systems in cities like Sydney and Melbourne has been reconsidered and proposed as a solution to over-capacity issues.

Which country has led the world in metro expansion in the 21st century, and what is its current status regarding rapid transit systems?

In the 21st century, China has become the world's leader in metro expansion. As of 2021, China (including Hong Kong and Macau) operates 40 rapid transit systems with over 4,500 km of track, and almost 60 Chinese cities are either operating, constructing, or planning a rapid transit system.

What are the primary purposes and operational characteristics of rapid transit systems in urban areas?

Rapid transit systems are primarily used for local transport within cities, urban agglomerations, and metropolitan areas. Their purpose is to efficiently transport large numbers of people over often short distances at high frequency, serving as a backbone for urban mobility.

How do rapid transit systems typically serve outer suburbs, and what can be unclear about these systems?

Rapid transit systems may extend to the limits of the inner city or its inner ring of suburbs, with trains making frequent stops. Outer suburbs, however, are often served by a separate commuter rail network, where stations are more widely spaced to allow for higher speeds. In some instances, the distinctions between urban rapid transit and suburban systems can become blurred.

What are some notable records held by rapid transit systems globally as of 2021?

As of 2021, China has the largest number of rapid transit systems in the world, totaling 40, and was responsible for most of the global expansion in the 2010s. The Shanghai Metro holds the record for the world's longest single-operator rapid transit system by route length. The New York City Subway is the largest single rapid transit service provider by number of stations, with 472 stations. The busiest systems by annual ridership include the Shanghai Metro, Tokyo subway system, Seoul Metro, and Moscow Metro. Additionally, the Riyadh Metro is the longest driverless metro, and the Helsinki Metro is the northernmost metro system in the world.

How are rapid transit lines typically organized and distinguished within a system?

Each rapid transit system comprises one or more lines or circuits, with each line serviced by at least one specific route where trains stop at all or some stations. Most systems differentiate their multiple routes using colors, names, numbering, or a combination of these methods.

What are common configurations for rapid transit lines, especially concerning city centers and suburbs?

A common configuration involves a line running through the city center that branches into two or more lines in the suburbs, which allows for higher service frequency in the central area. Alternatively, systems may have a single central terminal, multiple interchange stations in the city center, or a circular line around the city center connecting to radially arranged outward lines.

How is the capacity of a rapid transit line determined, and what are typical passenger capacities?

The capacity of a rapid transit line is calculated by multiplying the car capacity, the train length, and the service frequency. Heavy rapid transit trains can have six to twelve cars, while lighter systems may use four or fewer. Cars typically accommodate 100 to 150 passengers, with higher standing ratios increasing capacity. Typical lines can carry 1,200 people per train, resulting in about 36,000 passengers per hour per direction, though East Asian systems like Hong Kong's MTR achieve much higher capacities of 75,000 to 85,000 people per hour.

What factors influence the topological design of rapid transit networks?

The topologies of rapid transit networks are shaped by numerous factors, including geographical barriers, existing or anticipated travel patterns, construction costs, political considerations, and historical constraints. These factors lead to various network shapes such as 'I,' 'L,' 'U,' 'S,' and 'O' (loops).

What are the benefits of ring lines and grid patterns in rapid transit network topologies?

Ring lines offer excellent coverage, facilitate connections between radial lines, and accommodate tangential trips that would otherwise need to traverse the often-congested core of the network. A rough grid pattern provides a wide array of routes while maintaining reasonable speed and frequency of service, enhancing overall network efficiency.

How do rapid transit operators build their brands and provide passenger information?

Rapid transit operators often develop strong brands focused on easy recognition, conveying speed, safety, and authority. While a single corporate image may exist for the entire transit authority, the rapid transit component typically has its own distinct logo. Passenger information is provided through transit maps, which are topological diagrams using color-coded lines and named icons for stations, often found in vehicles, on platforms, and in timetables. Many systems also use alphanumeric codes for stations to help commuters identify them, and modern systems leverage the internet and cell phones to offer online maps, timetables, and real-time arrival information, often through standardized data formats like GTFS for third-party applications.

What security measures are implemented in rapid transit systems to ensure passenger safety?

Rapid transit systems maintain a strong safety record through strict regulations, procedures, and maintenance. To address security concerns in public spaces, measures include video surveillance, security guards, and conductors. Some countries establish specialized transit police forces. These security efforts are often integrated with revenue protection measures, such as checking for fare evasion. Additionally, some systems, like the Beijing Subway, implement airport-style security checkpoints at every station to enhance safety against threats like terrorism, as seen in past incidents like the Tokyo subway sarin gas attack and the London Underground bombings.

What added features are available on some modern rapid transit trains and systems?

Some modern rapid transit trains offer added features for passenger convenience, such as wall sockets, cellular reception (often via leaky feeders in tunnels and DAS antennas in stations), and Wi-Fi connectivity. The Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system was the first in the world to provide full mobile phone reception in its underground stations and tunnels, starting in 1989.

What is 'light metro' and how does it function within a rapid transit network?

Light metro is a sub-classification of rapid transit that shares the speed and grade separation of a full metro system but is designed for smaller passenger volumes. These systems typically feature smaller loading gauges, lighter train cars, and shorter train consists, usually two to four cars. Light metros often serve as feeder lines, channeling passengers into the main, higher-capacity rapid transit system.

What are the primary methods for constructing underground rapid transit lines?

Underground rapid transit lines are primarily constructed using two methods: 'cut-and-cover' and 'bored tunneling.' Cut-and-cover involves excavating city streets, building a tunnel structure strong enough to support the road above, and then refilling the trench and rebuilding the roadway. Bored tunneling, on the other hand, begins with a vertical shaft from which tunnels are dug horizontally, often using a tunneling shield, minimizing surface disruption but potentially encountering groundwater issues or requiring blasting through bedrock.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of rubber-tired rapid transit systems?

Rubber-tired rapid transit systems, pioneered in cities like Paris and Montreal, offer advantages such as quieter operation and the ability to handle steeper inclines due to increased traction. However, they come with higher maintenance costs and are less energy-efficient. Additionally, they can lose traction in wet or icy weather conditions, which may limit their above-ground use in certain climates.

How are rapid transit trains typically powered today, and what are the common methods of power delivery?

Today, virtually all rapid transit trains are powered by electric motors and operate as multiple units. Traction power is usually supplied through one of two main forms: an overhead line, which is suspended from poles, towers, or tunnel ceilings, or a third rail, which is mounted at track level and contacted by a sliding 'pickup shoe.' The choice between these methods often depends on factors like tunnel clearance, as third rails are common in systems with limited overhead space.

What are the benefits of building tunnels for rapid transit in urban areas?

Building tunnels for rapid transit in urban areas offers several benefits: they move traffic away from street level, thereby avoiding delays caused by traffic congestion, and they free up valuable land for buildings and other uses. In areas with high land prices and dense land use, tunnels may be the only economically viable route for mass transportation.

What is the deepest metro system in the world, and what are some of its deepest stations?

The deepest metro system in the world is located in St. Petersburg, Russia, where stable soil is found more than 50 meters (160 feet) deep, with water-bearing sand above that level. Consequently, only a few stations are built near or above ground, while some stations and tunnels lie as deep as 100–120 meters (330–390 feet) below the surface. Notable deep stations globally include Hongyancun (Chongqing, 116 meters), Arsenalna (Kyiv, 105.5 meters), and Admiralteyskaya (St. Petersburg, 86 meters).

What is the 'hump' technique used in deep tunnels, and what is its purpose?

The 'hump' technique, also known as putting stations 'on humps,' is an advantage of deep tunnels where the tracks can dip in a basin-like profile between stations. This design allows gravity to assist trains as they accelerate from one station and brake at the next, improving energy efficiency and operational performance without incurring significant extra costs associated with digging near ground level.

Why have elevated railways seen a resurgence in popularity since the late 20th century?

Elevated railways, after falling out of favor, experienced a resurgence in popularity in the last quarter of the 20th century. They are a cheaper and easier alternative to building expensive tunnels or creating physical barriers at street level. They are particularly feasible in areas with high water tables close to the city surface, which can make underground construction difficult or cost-prohibitive. This resurgence is often seen in combination with driverless systems.

What are the primary functions of rapid transit stations?

Rapid transit stations serve as crucial hubs within the transport network. Their primary functions include allowing passengers to board and disembark from trains, acting as payment checkpoints, and facilitating transfers between different modes of transport, such as to buses or other train lines.

How do high platforms and platform screen doors contribute to safety and efficiency in rapid transit stations?

High platforms in rapid transit stations enable step-free access between the platform and the train, which improves accessibility for all passengers, including those with disabilities or wheeled baggage. Platform screen doors (PSDs) further enhance safety by preventing people from falling onto the tracks and also contribute to efficiency by reducing ventilation costs within the station environment.

What role does art and architecture play in some rapid transit stations globally?

In many rapid transit systems, particularly in the former Soviet Union and Eastern European countries, stations are built with splendid decorations like marble walls, polished granite floors, and mosaics, effectively exposing the public to art in their daily lives. Cities like Moscow, St. Petersburg, Tashkent, and Kyiv are renowned for their beautiful stations. Other cities, including London, Stockholm, Montreal, Lisbon, Naples, and Los Angeles, have also integrated art, ranging from decorative claddings to flamboyant artistic schemes and displays of ancient artifacts, recognizing that such investments can attract more passengers by enhancing the overall experience of cleanliness, accessibility, lighting, and safety.

How has the crew size on rapid transit trains evolved with technological advancements?

In the early days, rapid transit trains required at least two staff members: an attendant/conductor for doors and a driver/motorman. The introduction of powered doors around 1920 allowed for a reduction to a single crew member. With the advent of computerized automatic train control (ATC) and automatic train operation (ATO) in the 1960s, trains could start, accelerate, and stop automatically, leading to 'semi-automatic train operation' (GoA 2) where a crew member primarily manages doors, and eventually to 'driverless train operation' (GoA 3) and 'unattended train operation' (GoA 4) with no crew on board, as automation costs decreased.

What are the different Grades of Automation (GoA) in rapid transit systems?

The Grades of Automation (GoA) in rapid transit systems describe the level of automated operation. GoA 2, or semi-automatic train operation (STO), involves a crew member responsible for door closure while the train moves automatically. GoA 3, or driverless train operation (DTO), features a 'passenger service agent' on board with similar responsibilities but not actively driving. GoA 4, or unattended train operation (UTO), signifies completely unstaffed trains, where all operational functions are automated.

What are the main obstacles to converting existing rapid transit lines to fully automated operation?

Converting existing rapid transit lines to fully automated operation presents several obstacles. These include the potential necessity for a complete shutdown of operations during the conversion process. Furthermore, if multiple lines share the same infrastructure, it may require a transitional period of mixed operation, where both automated and human-operated trains share tracks.

How do light rail systems compare to rapid transit, and what is a 'premetro' design?

Light rail systems, which are a type of tram, have incorporated features of rapid transit by running on their own rights-of-way to avoid congestion, though they remain at the same level as buses and cars. They offer faster speeds and higher capacity than traditional trams and are a cheaper alternative to full rapid transit, especially for smaller cities. A 'premetro' design involves building an underground rapid transit system in the city center, but only a light rail or tram system in the suburbs, allowing for a gradual upgrade of existing tramways to rapid transit over time.

How do commuter rail systems sometimes function as a substitute for rapid transit in cities?

While commuter rail is a heavy rail system that typically operates at lower frequencies and higher average speeds with fewer stops than urban rapid transit, some commuter rail systems can serve as a substitute for a city's rapid transit. Examples include German S-Bahns, Jakarta's KRL Commuterline, and Mumbai Suburban Railway, which provide frequent mass transit within the city, effectively fulfilling a similar role to rapid transit.

What are the significant capital costs and financing challenges associated with rapid transit systems?

Rapid transit systems involve high capital costs and carry a significant risk of cost overruns and benefit shortfalls. Public financing is typically required, and these projects often compete with funding for road infrastructure. While some systems, like Hong Kong's MTR and Taipei's, achieve high farebox recovery ratios (ticket income to operating costs), this often excludes the substantial capital costs, which are frequently financed through soft loans, and may also be supplemented by ancillary revenue from real estate portfolios.

What are the environmental and urban development benefits of rapid transit systems?

Rapid transit systems offer significant environmental and urban development benefits. They provide higher capacity with less land use and a lower environmental impact compared to extensive road transport systems, and a 2023 study indicated they lead to a massive reduction in CO2 emissions. In urban centers, elevated or underground systems allow for efficient people transport without occupying expensive land, fostering compact city development without physical barriers. Unlike motorways that can depress nearby land values, proximity to rapid transit stations often stimulates commercial and residential growth, leading to transit-oriented development.

What residential housing density is estimated to be necessary to support rapid rail services?

Transportation planners estimate that a residential housing density of twelve dwelling units per acre is necessary to adequately support rapid rail services. This highlights the importance of urban land-use planning policies for the success and viability of mass transit systems, as they are not feasible in low-density communities.

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Defining Rapid Transit

The Core Concept

Rapid transit, also known as mass rapid transit (MRT) or metro, is a high-capacity public transportation system designed for urban environments. Its defining characteristic is operation on an exclusive, grade-separated right-of-way. This means its pathways—whether in tunnels, on elevated structures, or at ground level—are completely isolated from pedestrian and vehicular traffic, ensuring high speed and reliability.

Key Characteristics

Modern rapid transit systems are typically electric railways operating on designated lines between stations. Key features include:

Electric Multiple Units (EMUs): Trains composed of multiple self-propelled cars.
High Platforms: Allowing for step-free boarding, which minimizes station dwell times and improves accessibility.
High Frequency: Services are designed to run at short intervals, often every few minutes during peak hours.
System Integration: Often operated by the same authorities that manage other public transport, facilitating seamless transfers.

Historical Origins

The genesis of rapid transit dates back to the 19th century. The world's first system was London's Metropolitan Railway, which opened in 1863. It was a partially underground line that initially used steam locomotives. In 1868, New York City introduced the elevated West Side and Yonkers Patent Railway, which was initially a cable-hauled line powered by stationary steam engines. These pioneering systems laid the groundwork for the electric-powered networks that dominate today.

Global Terminology

A World of Names

The name for a rapid transit system often reflects its physical form. Systems running through tunnels are commonly called a subway, underground, or tube. In German-speaking regions, this is an U-Bahn (Untergrundbahn). Elevated systems are often known as the elevated (L or el), skytrain, or overhead. The term metro has become the most common international term, especially among non-native English speakers.

European Nomenclature

In Europe, terminology varies by region. The UK uses Underground or Tube in London and Metro in Newcastle. Glasgow's system is uniquely called the Subway. In France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, métro or metro is standard. Germany and Austria use U-Bahn for their primary rapid transit, often supplemented by suburban S-Bahn networks. In Italy and Spain, the terms are metropolitana and metro, respectively.

American & Asian Usage

In North America, subway is common (e.g., New York City, Toronto), while others use metro (e.g., Washington, Montreal). Some are known by acronyms reflecting their regional authority, such as BART in the San Francisco Bay Area or MARTA in Atlanta. In Southeast Asia and Taiwan, the acronym MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is prevalent, used in Singapore, Jakarta, Manila, and Taipei, though the full name can vary slightly by country.

A History of Urban Movement

The Electric Revolution

While the first metro in London used steam, the technology was unpleasant despite ventilation efforts. The true breakthrough came with electric traction. The City & South London Railway, opened in 1890, was the first fully underground, electric-powered rapid transit line. This innovation eliminated smoke and allowed for deeper tunnels, setting the standard for future development. The technology quickly spread to cities like Budapest, Boston, Paris, and New York, which either converted existing lines or built new electric systems from scratch.

The Modern Boom

After a period of stagnation in the mid-20th century, rapid transit saw a global resurgence starting in the 1960s, with many new systems built across Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The 21st century has been dominated by unprecedented expansion in Asia. China, in particular, has become the world leader, with nearly 60 cities operating, constructing, or planning a rapid transit system. This boom reflects the critical role metros play in managing the transportation needs of rapidly growing megacities.

Advancements and Hybrids

Technological advancements have led to fully automated, driverless services. Concurrently, hybrid systems have emerged to meet diverse urban needs. Tram-trains and premetro systems incorporate features of rapid transit, such as dedicated rights-of-way or underground city-center sections, while operating as trams in suburban areas. These solutions offer a more cost-effective approach for cities to upgrade their transit networks incrementally.

System Operations & Design

Purpose and Scope

The primary function of rapid transit is to move large numbers of people over relatively short distances at high frequency. The operational scope varies; some systems are confined to the dense urban core, while others extend far into suburban areas. In many cities, rapid transit is complemented by a separate commuter rail network, which serves outer suburbs with fewer stops and higher speeds, though the distinction between the two can sometimes be blurred.

Line Capacity

A line's capacity is a product of three factors: car capacity, train length, and service frequency (headway). Heavy rail trains can have six to twelve cars, each holding 100-150 passengers. The minimum headway can be as low as 90 seconds, allowing for theoretical capacities of over 36,000 passengers per hour per direction. Systems in East Asia, such as Hong Kong's MTR, have achieved even higher capacities, reaching up to 85,000 passengers per hour.

Network Topologies

The layout of a metro network is shaped by geography, travel patterns, and cost. Common designs include:

Radial Lines: Lines that converge on a central business district, often forking into multiple branches in the suburbs (e.g., Copenhagen Metro).
Grid Pattern: A matrix of crisscrossing lines offering multiple routes and transfer points (e.g., Paris Métro, London Underground).
Ring Lines: A circular line around the city center that connects the various radial lines, facilitating tangential journeys (e.g., Moscow Metro's Koltsevaya Line).
Central Loop: Multiple lines converging on a downtown loop before radiating outwards (e.g., Chicago 'L').

A comprehensive study of the world's largest systems suggests a universal shape composed of a dense core with radiating branches.

Infrastructure & Technology

Trains and Power

Virtually all modern rapid transit trains are electric multiple units (EMUs). Power is delivered via either a third rail running alongside the track or an overhead line. The third rail is common in systems with tight tunnel clearances. Some systems, like the London Underground, use a fourth rail as the electrical return. Propulsion technology has also evolved, with some systems using advanced linear motors for acceleration and braking.

Tracks and Alternatives

Most systems use standard-gauge steel tracks. An alternative is the rubber-tired metro, pioneered in Paris and Montreal. These systems offer quieter operation and the ability to climb steeper grades, but have higher maintenance costs and can lose traction in icy conditions, limiting their use above ground. Monorails, either straddling a beam or suspended from it, are another alternative for elevated lines, used extensively in cities like Chongqing.

Construction Methods

Underground lines are built using two primary methods. Cut-and-cover involves excavating a trench for the tunnel and then rebuilding the street above. This is disruptive but cost-effective for shallow tunnels. Bored tunneling uses a tunnel boring machine (TBM) to dig deep underground with minimal surface disruption. Elevated railways, built on viaducts, are a cheaper alternative to tunneling and are common in areas where land is less constrained or where underground construction is difficult.

Stations as Civic Spaces

Stations are critical hubs for passenger flow, payment, and transfers. Many systems have transformed their stations into public art galleries. The metros of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Tashkent are famous for their ornate designs with marble, mosaics, and chandeliers. Other cities like Stockholm, Naples, and Montreal have also integrated ambitious art and architectural schemes, turning everyday commutes into cultural experiences.

The Rise of Automation

From Two Crew to One

Early metro trains required a driver and a separate guard to operate the doors. The introduction of powered doors around 1920 allowed for the consolidation of these roles, leading to one-person train operation (OPTO). In this model, the driver is responsible for both operating the train and managing the doors, often using mirrors or CCTV monitors to ensure platform safety.

Grades of Automation (GoA)

Modern systems are classified by their Grade of Automation (GoA):

GoA 2 (STO): Semi-automatic Train Operation. The train moves automatically between stations, but a driver in the cab is responsible for closing doors and initiating departure. This is used on systems like San Francisco's BART.
GoA 3 (DTO): Driverless Train Operation. The train operates fully automatically, but a staff member (a "passenger service agent") is on board to handle emergencies and customer service.
GoA 4 (UTO): Unattended Train Operation. The train is fully automated with no staff on board. This is the highest level of automation, used on lines like the Lille Metro, Vancouver SkyTrain, and Singapore's North East Line.

Platform Screen Doors (PSDs)

The move towards automation is often coupled with the installation of platform screen doors (PSDs) or automatic platform gates (APGs). These barriers separate the platform from the tracks, enhancing safety by preventing falls and unauthorized access. They also improve the station's climate control and reduce noise. While essential for GoA 4 systems, they are also being retrofitted onto manually driven lines, such as London's Jubilee Line, to improve safety.

Costs, Benefits, and Impacts

High Costs, Public Funding

Rapid transit systems have extremely high capital costs and require significant public financing. These investments often compete with funding for road infrastructure. Most systems operate at a deficit, relying on a combination of fare revenue, advertising, and government subsidies to cover their operational expenses. The farebox recovery ratio is a key metric, with only a few systems, like Hong Kong's MTR and the Taipei Metro, achieving over 100% recovery on operational costs.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Despite the costs, the benefits are substantial. Rapid transit offers higher capacity with a much smaller land footprint than motorways. It significantly reduces traffic congestion and has a positive environmental impact, with studies showing a massive reduction in CO₂ emissions. Proximity to a metro station often stimulates economic activity, leading to transit-oriented development (TOD) that increases residential and commercial property values and promotes compact urban growth.

The Role of Urban Planning

The success of a rapid transit system is intrinsically linked to effective land-use planning. Mass transit is not viable in low-density, sprawling communities. Planners estimate that a minimum residential density of about twelve dwelling units per acre is necessary to support rapid rail services. This highlights the need for integrated transportation and urban planning policies to create dense, walkable communities centered around transit hubs.

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References

What is BRT?, Institute for Transportation & Development Policy

A full list of references for this article are available at the Rapid transit Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional urban planning, civil engineering, or transportation policy consultation. Always refer to official documentation from transit authorities and consult with qualified professionals for specific project needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Urban Arteries

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining Rapid Transit ℹ️

🚆 The Core Concept

⚡ Key Characteristics

📜 Historical Origins

Global Terminology 🌍

🗣️ A World of Names

🇪🇺 European Nomenclature

🌎 American & Asian Usage

A History of Urban Movement 📜

💡 The Electric Revolution

📈 The Modern Boom

🤖 Advancements and Hybrids

System Operations & Design 🗺️

🎯 Purpose and Scope

kapasitas Line Capacity

🌐 Network Topologies

Infrastructure & Technology ⚙️

🚄 Trains and Power

🛤️ Tracks and Alternatives

🏗️ Construction Methods

🏛️ Stations as Civic Spaces

The Rise of Automation 🤖

🧑‍✈️ From Two Crew to One

📊 Grades of Automation (GoA)

🚪 Platform Screen Doors (PSDs)

Costs, Benefits, and Impacts 💰

💸 High Costs, Public Funding

📈 Economic and Environmental Benefits

🏘️ The Role of Urban Planning

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Rapid Transit

The Core Concept

Key Characteristics

Historical Origins

Global Terminology

A World of Names

European Nomenclature

American & Asian Usage

A History of Urban Movement

The Electric Revolution

The Modern Boom

Advancements and Hybrids

System Operations & Design

Purpose and Scope

Line Capacity

Network Topologies

Infrastructure & Technology

Trains and Power

Tracks and Alternatives

Construction Methods

Stations as Civic Spaces

The Rise of Automation

From Two Crew to One

Grades of Automation (GoA)

Platform Screen Doors (PSDs)

Costs, Benefits, and Impacts

High Costs, Public Funding

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The Role of Urban Planning

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice