BY SANDHYA | 5 AUG 2025
Ever noticed the sharp stones between railway tracks? These are not random! They're called track ballast and serve vital purposes.
Track ballast refers to crushed stones placed between and around railway tracks to support and stabilize the track.
Ballast holds railway sleepers (ties) firmly in place, preventing the tracks from shifting due to train movement.
It spreads the weight of passing trains over a wider area, reducing stress on the ground beneath.
Ballast allows for easy water drainage, preventing water from collecting and damaging the track foundation.
The rocks suppress the growth of weeds and plants, which could otherwise damage or weaken the tracks.
Stones absorb and reduce vibrations caused by trains, minimizing wear and tear on tracks and sleepers.
By keeping the track bed stable, ballast helps prevent soil erosion during rains and floods.
Loose stones can be easily replaced or adjusted during maintenance without disassembling the track.
Ballast significantly increases the lifespan of railway tracks by reducing movement and wear.