Why is it important to remove snow and ice from railway tracks?

Removing snow and ice from railway tracks is crucial for ensuring safe operations. Ice and snow can create hazardous conditions that may lead to derailments or accidents. When tracks are covered in ice or snow, the friction between the train wheels and the tracks is significantly reduced, impairing the train's ability to stop effectively and maintain control during movement. This lack of traction can lead to slippery situations, making it challenging for trains to navigate turns or stop at stations safely.

In addition to safety concerns, untreated snow and ice can obstruct signals and switch mechanisms, further contributing to potential accidents and operational issues. Therefore, maintaining clear tracks is vital for ensuring that the railway system operates safely and effectively for both passengers and freight operations. The other choices, while they may have some relevance to the overall operation of railways, do not address the primary reason for snow and ice removal as directly as the aspect of safety.