Crossword Genius

Uneven railways removed, sadly (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

alas

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'sadly' is the definition.
('alas' is used to express regret)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for alas that I've seen before include "Exclamation of misfortune" , "Antipodean island state" , "Lackaday" , "Woeful expression" , "By bad luck" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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