Sustainable Railway Infrastructure: Modernization Strategies for Integrating 1520 mm and 1435 mm Gauge Systems

This article examines the modernization of railway systems with a focus on sustainable infrastructure development, aligning with the European Commission’s strategy for integrating 1520 mm gauge railways into the European 1435 mm gauge network. A key challenge lies in addressing the technical aspects of the railway infrastructure that are not explicitly detailed in the European strategy but have evolved through the parallel historical development of two distinct railway engineering systems. An analysis of calculation methodologies highlights that the primary difference in determining technical parameters for 1435 mm and 1520 mm tracks stems from the selection of the primary classifier based on functional purpose and strength requirements. Furthermore, the existing concept of mechanical system motion presents limitations in harmonizing the technical aspects of railway systems with different track gauges. To bridge this gap, two potential solutions are proposed. The first suggests expanding the conventional mechanical system motion framework by incorporating principles from the theory of relativity, while the second explores the application of elastic wave propagation theory as a novel conceptual model for railway system dynamics. The choice of modernization strategy will play a crucial role in ensuring long-term sustainability of the railway infrastructure, requiring a balanced approach that accounts for the operational intensity, infrastructure wear, and specific technical requirements of track elements in different railway gauge systems.