Why do trains run faster at night? The reason behind this fact will leave you stunned
Have you ever observed that trains appear to run faster at night than during the day? This question often comes up for regular passengers who feel the speed of the train more intensely during nighttime journeys. But why do trains seem to zip through the night air, while they appear slower in the daylight? There are several factors at play, such as reduced traffic, fewer stops, and better operating conditions. In this article, we will explore the key reasons why trains tend to maintain higher speeds during nighttime travel compared to the daytime.
Traffic Pressure During the Day
- Express trains, passenger trains, freight trains, and shuttle services are more frequent.
- This congestion causes trains to stop at signals, reducing their speed.
- To manage the traffic smoothly, trains often need to cross paths at certain points, further impacting their speed.
Fewer Trains at Night
- Most freight trains are operated at night to prioritize passenger trains during the day.
- With fewer trains on the tracks, there is less congestion, allowing trains to travel uninterrupted to their destinations.
- With fewer signals to manage, trains can maintain higher speeds.
Simpler Signaling System
- During the day, numerous trains operating on the same track can complicate signal management.
- At night, with fewer trains, the signaling system can operate more efficiently, ensuring that trains continuously receive green signals.
- This leads to an increase in the average speed of trains.
Timeliness of Night Trains
- The railway department gives these trains priority to ensure punctuality.
- As a result, night trains make fewer stops and travel faster.
Fewer Stops at Stations
- Local passenger trains and express trains tend to stop more frequently.
- At night, most trains skip many stations, allowing them to maintain speed and cover long distances in less time.
Better Atmospheric Conditions at Night
- During the day, the heat and higher temperatures cause thermal expansion of the tracks, potentially slowing down trains.
- At night, cooler temperatures stabilize the tracks, enabling trains to run faster.
Priority for Freight Trains
- Freight trains travel longer distances without many interruptions.
- Passenger trains are also allowed to run faster alongside freight trains, ensuring smoother and quicker journeys.
No Track Maintenance at Night
- As a result, trains are often instructed to travel at slower speeds in areas under maintenance.
- At night, track repairs are not being conducted, allowing trains to operate at higher speeds.