Backshunt

Backshunt
An example of a backshunt from an industrial siding on to a mainline

A backshunt is a railway track configuration in situations where a change in (almost opposite) direction is required and a traditional curve cannot fit.^[1]

There are two main applications of a backshunt.

1. To climb or drop a steep incline using a zig zag^[2]
2. To change direction on to a parallel track, often used in industrial sidings.^[3]