Consider the following pair.

List - I	List - II
i) Broad gauge	1676
ii) Meter gauge	762
iii) Narrow gauge	1000

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

Explanation:

Broad Gauge (1676 mm)

1. Broad Gauge is the standard for most of Indian Railways with a track width of 1676 mm. It allows for higher speeds, better stability, and greater load-carrying capacity. Suitable for main lines, high-speed corridors, and long-distance routes.

2. It supports heavier axle loads and larger train dimensions, improving efficiency. Both passenger and freight trains run more smoothly on this gauge. Major express and superfast trains operate on Broad Gauge tracks.

3. The Unigauge policy promotes Broad Gauge as the uniform standard in India. This eliminates transshipment and enables seamless connectivity across zones. It simplifies maintenance and operational planning across the network.

 Additional InformationMeter Gauge (1000 mm)

1. Meter Gauge has a track width of 1000 mm, commonly used in earlier rail development. It was preferred due to lower construction costs and suitability for light traffic. Mostly found in rural and low-density routes in past decades.

2. It has lower speed and load capacity than Broad Gauge, limiting efficiency. Trains running on meter gauge are generally smaller and slower. It cannot handle the same volume as broader gauges.

3. Meter Gauge is being gradually replaced under the Unigauge policy.
   Many routes have already been converted to Broad Gauge for standardization. This helps improve network connectivity and operational flexibility.

Narrow Gauge (762 mm and 610 mm)

1. Narrow Gauge includes tracks less than 1000 mm, commonly 762 mm or 610 mm.It was used in hilly, forested, or difficult terrains where wider gauges were impractical. Construction and maintenance are cheaper due to lighter infrastructure.

2. These gauges are suitable for light traffic and short-distance railways.
   Rolling stock is smaller, and speeds are significantly lower. Used for heritage lines, rural lines, and industrial railways.

3. Examples include Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (610 mm) and Matheran Hill Railway (610 mm). These lines are often tourist attractions and preserved as heritage sites. They demonstrate engineering solutions in mountainous regions.