Meter gauge refers to railway tracks with a distance of 1,000 mm (3 ft 3 3/8 in) between the rails.
Historical Significance:
Introduced to reduce construction costs.
Current Status:
Most meter gauge lines are being converted to broad gauge under the Project Unigauge initiative.Some lines, like the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, remain operational due to their heritage status.
Advantages:
Lower construction and maintenance costs.Suitable for hilly and less populated areas.Once widespread, especially in regions like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Assam.
Meter gauge tracks, though less common today, played a crucial role in connecting remote regions of India, contributing to the nation’s railway legacy.
