Railway and Metro Construction Industry - OKVED 42.12. A Brief History.

Railways stand as one of humanity's greatest achievements, profoundly influencing economic development, social change, and urbanization. The history of railways is a story of innovation, technology, and cultural transformation spanning over two hundred years.

The first attempts to create railways date back to the 18th century, when England began constructing rail tracks for transporting coal from mines. However, the real revolution came with the invention of the steam locomotive. In 1804, Richard Trevithick developed the first steam locomotive capable of hauling cargo. But the true popularity of railways began with the opening of the first public railway—the Stockton and Darlington Railway—in 1825. This railway used steam locomotives and became a model for subsequent projects. Soon, railways began to spread across the United Kingdom and later to other parts of Europe and North America. By the mid-19th century, the railway network had connected numerous cities and regions, fostering economic growth and increasing population mobility.

The second half of the 19th century marked the "golden age" of railways. Technological advancements, such as steel rails and more powerful locomotives, made transportation more efficient. In 1869, the first transcontinental railway in the United States was opened, linking the country's eastern and western coasts. This event became a symbol of unity and progress, unlocking new opportunities for trade and migration.

Europe also saw active railway construction during this period. France, Germany, and Russia began developing extensive networks that connected cities and regions. Railways not only spurred economic development but also facilitated cultural exchange, enabling people to travel and experience new cultures.

At the beginning of the 20th century, railways faced new challenges. The rise of automobiles and aviation led to a decline in railway passenger traffic. Nevertheless, railways continued to play a vital role in freight transport, especially during World War II. After the war, a new era began for railways. Countries started modernizing their networks, introducing new technologies such as electrification and automation. In 1964, Japan inaugurated the first high-speed railway, the Shinkansen, marking the dawn of a new era in high-speed passenger transport.

Today, railways continue to evolve, adapting to modern societal demands. The introduction of high-speed trains, eco-friendly technologies, and automated control systems has made rail transport faster and safer. In Europe, integrated transport systems that connect various modes of transport are actively being developed. Moreover, in light of global challenges like climate change, railways are becoming increasingly relevant as an environmentally friendly mode of transportation. Many countries are investing in railway infrastructure to reduce dependence on cars and lower carbon emissions.

The history of railway development is a story of innovations that have transformed cities and people's lives. Railways have laid the foundation for the global economy and played a pivotal role in urbanization. Despite contemporary challenges, they remain a crucial element of transport infrastructure, ensuring accessibility and mobility in a rapidly changing world. The future of railways promises to be exciting, with new technologies and opportunities that will contribute to sustainable societal development.

The metro, or underground railway, has become an integral part of urban infrastructure in many megacities worldwide. Since its inception, it has redefined urban transport, providing fast and efficient transportation for millions of people. The history of metro development is a story of innovation and adaptation to the changing conditions of urban life.

The history of the metro begins in the mid-19th century. The first attempts to create underground transport were made in London. In 1863, the world's first underground railway—the London Underground—was opened. Initially, it was not quite a metro in the modern sense: the line was built using the "cut-and-cover" method, meaning part of the route ran above ground. Nevertheless, this project revolutionized urban transport, offering an alternative to congested streets. The success of the London Underground inspired other cities to create similar systems. In 1890, the first metro line opened in New York, followed by systems in Paris, Berlin, and other major cities in Europe and the United States.

From the early 20th century, metros began to develop rapidly. Construction technologies improved, enabling the creation of deeper and more complex systems. The Paris Métro, opened in 1900, became a model for others due to its architecture and station design. It quickly gained popularity and became an essential part of urban life. In the 1920s and 1930s, metros began to appear in cities like Moscow, Tokyo, and Chicago. The Moscow Metro, opened in 1935, became one of the most beautiful and impressive in the world, renowned for its stunning stations adorned with mosaics and sculptures.

After World War II, many cities faced challenges due to rapid population growth and car dependency. Metros emerged as a solution, offering fast and efficient transportation. In the 1950s and 1960s, numerous cities worldwide began constructing new lines and expanding existing networks. During this time, new technologies were also introduced: automated control systems, electrified trains, and improved passenger safety. Metros became more accessible to people with disabilities and began implementing contactless payment systems.

Today, metros continue to evolve, facing new challenges and opportunities. Many megacities are experiencing population growth, placing additional strain on transport systems. In response, cities are investing in expanding their metros, building new lines, and upgrading old ones. Modern metros also strive for sustainability. Many cities are adopting eco-friendly technologies, such as using solar energy to power stations or transitioning to more efficient trains. Integrated transport systems that link metros with other forms of public transport are also being actively developed.