C, C++ ... or less?

What is "manage" the sidings? Signalling? Controlling points? Look at NMRA LCC.

Anyway, be aware that a lot of work has already been done on using Arduino for model railroads. Some Arduino projects like DCC+ are linked to there.

https://www.jmri.org/
https://www.jmri.org/help/en/html/hardware/arduino/index.shtml