Railway ties, also known as railroad ties or sleepers, are rectangular supports used to hold the rails of a railway track in place. They are typically made from wood, concrete, or steel and are laid perpendicular to the rails. Their primary function is to distribute the weight of the trains and maintain the correct spacing between the rails. In addition to providing stability, railway ties help absorb vibrations and reduce wear on the tracks. Wooden ties are often treated with preservatives to resist decay, while concrete ties are designed for durability and low maintenance. Properly maintained ties are essential for safe and efficient train operations.