Victorian Rail Networks: The Through-Running Revolution

Nineteenth-century railway networks transformed European and North American cities, but high land costs, technological limitations, and regulations often resulted in railways terminating at city edges, creating a 'spokes without a hub' pattern. The advent of metro technology in the early 20th century offered a solution, but its high cost limited its adoption. Many cities retained vast Victorian railway networks, characterized by extensive coverage but low frequency and poor interconnectivity. This article examines 'through-running,' a solution that connects suburban rail lines on opposite sides of a city via tunnels, significantly improving efficiency at a fraction of the cost. Munich's S-Bahn and London's Elizabeth Line showcase successful implementations. Through-running offers a cost-effective method for cities worldwide to upgrade existing rail systems, boosting public transportation efficiency.