narrow-gauge railway

A narrow-gauge railway is a type of train track with rails spaced closer together than standard railways, typically less than 1.435 meters (4 feet 8.5 inches). This narrower track gauge allows for tighter curves and more flexible routing, making it suitable for difficult terrain or industrial use. Because of reduced construction costs and easier equipment handling, narrow-gauge railways are often employed in mountain regions, mining operations, and specialized applications. While they usually carry smaller loads and shorter distances compared to standard railways, they are efficient solutions where space, cost, or terrain constraints exist.