There are a few reasons why there are a lot of pebbles on the side of the tracks:
Increase the stability of the rails: Pebbles, also known as ballast, can support the rail sleepers, increase the stability of the rails, and prevent the rails from moving or deforming.
Disperse the weight of the train: Pebbles can evenly distribute the weight from the train on the roadbed, reducing the pressure on the rails and sleepers, thus extending the service life.
Reduced vibration and noise: Pebbles have good elasticity and can disperse the vibrations generated when the train is moving, making passengers feel more comfortable, while also reducing noise generation.
Easy drainage: The gaps between the pebbles can quickly drain away rainwater, prevent water accumulation in the roadbed, and keep the railway line in good condition.
Maintain the geometric shape of the track: When the railway line is in poor condition, the workers in the road maintenance area can lift the line with a road starter, and then pound the stones into the bottom of the sleeper to restore the line to a good state.
In summary, the pebbles on the side of the rails play a very important role in railway transportation, they not only increase the stability of the tracks, but also disperse the weight of the train, reduce vibration and noise, facilitate drainage, and maintain the geometry of the tracks.