Analysis of Rail Yard and Terminal Performances

Abstract

One of the latest trends in the transport field is the increasing interest for the rejuvenation of the railway. It is considered to be a logical consequence of the gradual switch towards a more sustainable future in transports. Terminals and stations are considered to be the junction points between the various lines that constitute the railway network and can simply be described as points of arrival, departure and interchange of passengers or commodities. The most commonly used indicators that measure the level of their performance are time and cost. This study aims at exploring possible improvements that could be implemented to the infrastructure and the operation of terminals and stations in order to increase the efficiency level. Firstly, drawing upon grounded theory, a description is conducted, followed by a comparative analysis of the different types of existing terminals and stations. Secondly, the suggested improvements are presented in accordance with their time frame completion. The main contribution of the study is to illustrate the high significance of terminals, stations and yards, given the fact that they are considered to be crucial parts of the railway network. In addition to this, great emphasis is given to the need of improving and developing the existing terminal infrastructure and operations.