Track ballast, consisting of gravel, cinders or other aggregate, forms the trackbed upon which railway ties (US) or sleepers (UK) are laid. It is used to facilitate drainage of water, and to create even running surface.

The ballast also holds the track in place as the trains roll by.

See also

• Track maintenance and Maintenance of way

Rail infrastructure

Kolejové lože | balasto | Ballast | پارسنگ | Ballast | バラスト軌道 | Ballastbed | Balastro