Why do trains run faster at night? The reason behind this fact will leave you stunned

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.