In a feat of modern engineering, China has unveiled a 2,700-kilometer railway encircling the Taklimakan Desert – a sprawling, shifting sandscape known as the ‘Sea of Death.’ The project, completed in just two years, carves through one of Earth’s most inhospitable environments where temperatures swing from -20°C to 40°C.
Engineering Against the Odds
Workers battled ferocious sandstorms swallowing equipment whole and developed patented windbreak systems using AI-powered monitoring. Solar-powered smart sensors now track rail stability in real-time, while desert-adapted trains feature airtight cabins and robotic sand clearance systems.
A Green Corridor in the Desert
Over 13 million drought-resistant shrubs were planted along the route, creating oasis-like stops that double as eco-research hubs. ‘This isn’t just infrastructure – it’s climate adaptation in action,’ noted lead engineer Zhao Wei.
Boosting Trade and Tourism
The railway connects vital Belt and Road trade nodes while opening access to previously remote Silk Road sites. Adventure tourism has surged 300% since trial runs began, with luxury ‘desert express’ tours booked through 2025.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
