Transportation in Östervallen

<blockquote>'''OUTDATED BY A CENTURY'''</blockquote>

Östervallen, the capital city of Vittmark, is the largest urban area in the country and serves as a crucial transportation hub due to its strategic location and infrastructure. Despite not being situated at the mouth of a navigable river, Östervallen boasts the second-largest harbor complex in the nation and is a center for various industries and workshops.

To and From Östervallen

Airship Travel

The main airfield for passenger traffic in Östervallen is Rustning, located south of Dämmanö. Construction of this airfield began towards the end of the Pan-Anarian War, but it was not completed until 7555. Following damage during the Three Ways Conflict, Rustning was reopened in 7565 and remains the primary airfield. Smaller airfields are also in operation around the city.

Östervallen has its own docking tower outside the eastern gate, primarily used for diplomatic and royal travel. This docking tower lacks hangar facilities. Hårstaden, located in the new town, is the military airfield. It contains a small hangar, but the federal military also utilizes facilities at Rustning. The suburb of Åstunda has its own docking tower, located in the town center, which is mainly used by Lidens Luftskepp Bolag (LLB) for regular domestic airship services.

Railways

Östervallen, having maintained a neutral or autonomous status during much of the industrial age, is a terminus for five railway lines operated by six different railway companies. Efforts are currently underway to connect the Lidenish and Ådalish networks. The city serves as a crucial bottleneck on the broad-gauge east-west mainline under development as federal infrastructure, with a new station planned between Dämmanö and Östervallen for through-trains, expected to be completed by 7580.

• Kustbanan: This coastal railway terminates at Väststanvik, directly west of the old town, serving various coastal towns in Ådalen. The railway operates on a broad gauge of 1829 mm.
• Östervallen Ås Järnväg (ÖÅJ): This line, also using an 1829 mm broad gauge, serves major cities in Ådalen and terminates near Västerporten. The station, known as the "high station," is located about 20 meters above Väststanvik station. A recent extension connects it with the terminus of Inlandsbanan.
• Inlandsbanan: This southbound rail network towards Ådalen is owned and operated by ÖÄI, having been nationalized in 7561. The terminus is at Dämmanö, and it also serves as a commuter train with the first stop at Källan, a major cargo transfer yard connecting to Liden's rail network.
• Lidenbanan: A joint network in the standard Liden gauge of 1220 mm, Lidenbanan's main station in Östervallen is Månsta, situated on the west side of the new town. The lines have been extended to terminate at Nersta near Östervallen, providing both commuter and long-distance services.
• Sanddalens Järnvägar (SI): Despite its proximity to Lidenbanan, this independent railway company operates on the same 1220 mm gauge with services towards Kopparbruk and Sandsala. Its terminus, Borgö station, is located just north of Månsta station.

Ship Transport

Östervallen serves as a stopover for most passenger boats navigating the northern shores of Stoldavia. A regular ferry connects the city with Kletudde. Historically, coastal shipping was more reliable than horse-drawn carriages, and although several coastal services still exist, passenger travel is now a secondary function to goods transport.

Within and Through Östervallen

Sammanbindningsbanan

The Sammanbindningsbanan railway line, currently under construction, will serve as a vital commuter and cargo transport route once completed. The new infrastructure will connect different parts of the city, enabling suburban development outside Östervallen's jurisdiction.

Horse-Drawn Trams

Horse-drawn tramways have been operational in Östervallen since 7532, providing essential services despite the city's challenging layout. The first line connects Månsta station in the east with Nerstaplan. Additional lines have been added, connecting various parts of the city, including the old town and southern belt areas. Plans are underway to expand tram services, particularly in the Valby neighborhood.

Automobiles and Steamtrucks

All vehicles entering the central parts of Östervallen, including horse-drawn carriages, automobiles, and steam trucks, are subject to a city toll, except for diplomatic vehicles, military vehicles, and coal trucks. The toll system is complex, with varying charges depending on the type and purpose of the vehicle.

Cargo Transport

Östervallen has several harbors and docks catering to different types of cargo. Modern deep-water ships are handled in docks with regulated water levels, while smaller ships utilize open quays with floating jetties. Key harbors include Väststanvik and Almedalen in the old town, Östervallen’s own open harbor for royal provisions, and the Nystadens Varv, which has transitioned from shipbuilding to cargo handling.