A new section of the Sichuan-Qinghai Railway in western China officially opened on Friday, revolutionizing travel between Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, and Jiuzhaigou, a renowned scenic destination celebrated for its vibrant lakes and waterfalls. The latest addition slashes the travel time to under two hours, down from the previous seven-hour car journey.
The newly inaugurated segment extends from Zhenjiangguan to Huangshengguan and saw its maiden train, C5818, depart from Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station at 10:36 a.m. This milestone marks a significant enhancement in connectivity, linking major tourist hotspots such as Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou with unprecedented speed and efficiency.
Spanning 69 kilometers within Songpan County of the Aba Zang and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, the new railway section encompasses four stations: Zhenjiangguan Railway Station, Songpan Railway Station, Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station, and Huangshengguan Railway Station. This development is a vital component of China's expansive \"Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal\" high-speed railway network, which interconnects key cities including Lanzhou in Gansu Province, Xining in Qinghai Province, and Guangzhou in Guangdong Province.
The introduction of this high-speed rail line is anticipated to significantly enhance travel for residents of all ethnic backgrounds along the route, fostering regional economic and social development. Additionally, it is expected to spur high-quality growth in China's western regions by boosting tourism and related industries, making travel more convenient and accessible for both locals and visitors.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
