THE EMERGENCE AND STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT OF RAILWAY TRANSPORT

Railway transport has played a crucial role in the economic, industrial, and social development of modern civilization. Since its emergence in the early nineteenth century, the railway system has undergone continuous technological and structural transformations. The evolution of railway transport reflects the progress of engineering, energy systems, and logistics management. This study aims to analyze the historical emergence of railway transport and identify the main stages of its development from early rail systems to modern high-speed and digital railways. A historical-analytical approach was applied through the review of scientific, technical, and historical sources. The results demonstrate that railway transport has evolved through several distinct stages, each characterized by significant innovations that enhanced speed, safety, and efficiency. The discussion highlights the long-term socio-economic impact of railways and their continuing importance in sustainable transportation systems. The study concludes that railway transport remains a strategic element of global infrastructure and continues to adapt to modern technological demands.