Tram rails city

Urban tram rails carry over a century of history, technology, and sustainable mobility in cities around the world.

About this subject

Tram rails are the fundamental infrastructure of light rail transit systems. The history of trams begins in the 19th century with horse-drawn vehicles, evolving into electric trams by the end of the same century. Cities like Rio de Janeiro, Lisbon, and Melbourne maintained their networks, while many others replaced trams with buses and automobiles. In Brazil, the electric tram debuted in 1892 in Rio de Janeiro and spread to several state capitals, but most lines were deactivated between the 1960s and 1980s.

Technically, tram rails have a standard gauge of 1,435 mm in most of the world, although variations such as the metric gauge (1,000 mm) exist in some Brazilian lines. The rail profile is specially designed to withstand heavy loads and constant wear from steel wheel friction. On streets shared with cars, rails are embedded in asphalt, requiring periodic maintenance to prevent deformation and ensure safety.

The revival of trams has occurred in many cities as part of sustainable mobility strategies. Modern Light Rail Vehicles (LRV) combine rail efficiency with low pollutant emissions. In Brazil, projects in Curitiba, Brasília, and São Paulo aim to reintroduce this mode, leveraging its capacity to carry large numbers of passengers with reduced energy costs. Interestingly, the city of Santos maintains a tourist tram that runs through the historic center, preserving the memory of rail transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard gauge for tram rails?

The international standard gauge is 1,435 mm, but some historic or regional lines use metric gauge (1,000 mm), common in old Brazilian trams.

Why did trams disappear from many Brazilian cities?

From the 1960s onward, policies favoring road transport and cars led to the dismantling of tram networks, seen as obsolete and costly. Lack of investment and preference for buses also contributed.

Which cities still operate historic trams?

In Brazil, highlights are the tourist trams of Santos (SP) and Santa Teresa (Rio de Janeiro). Globally, Lisbon, Melbourne, and San Francisco are famous for maintaining historic trams in regular service.