China launches high-speed railway to link 2 economic hubs

On Tuesday, a new high-speed railway began trial operations, linking the major economic hubs of Hangzhou and Wenzhou in the Yangtze River Delta region of eastern China. Spanning 260 kilometers, this railway is designed to operate at speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour and features nine stations along its route.

The railway is set to provide a rapid transit solution across the economically significant corridor connecting Hangzhou, Yiwu, and Wenzhou, which are among the most vibrant economic centers in the country. Wang Chang, who oversees the railway project at the Zhejiang Development and Planning Institute’s railway subsidiary, highlighted the project’s importance.

This railway initiative represents a national pilot for mixed ownership reform, aiming to attract social capital into railway construction. It is integrated with the existing high-speed rail network in the Yangtze River Delta, enhancing connectivity within the region.

The line also connects with key tourism destinations, including Hangzhou, renowned for its scenic beauty and often described as “Heaven on Earth,” as well as Xianhua Mountain and Nanxi River. Wang emphasized that the railway is crucial for improving public travel and fostering higher-quality integrated development within the Yangtze River Delta.