China’s state planner, National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), approved urban rail projects in Changchun and Suzhou, totaling a USD 25 billion investment.
For Changchun, the NDRC approved a USD 11.4 billion (CNY 78.7 billion) investment to develop an integrated urban rail system. The project envisages the construction of 8 metro lines and light rail lines with a total length of 135.4 km. the construction works are expected to be launched this year and they should be completed by 2023.
The authorities intend to invest 40% of the total needed investment, and the rest would be provided by bank loans.
Under its jurisdiction, Changchun has a population of 7.6 million and is China’s first city having urban rail transport system which is part of city’s metro system consisting three lines. Last year, the city opened its first heavy metro line with a length of 18.1 km and 15 stations. It provides transport connection from the north part of the city to south.
For the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, the authority approved a USD 13.75 billion (CNY 95 billion) investment for the development of four urban rail lines, with an estimated length of 137 km.
Suzhou rail transit system is formed by three lines with a total length of 105 km and by 2021, the authorities plan to open Line 3 and Line 5. The masterplan highlights that the city should develop nine urban rail lines.
In July, the State Council announced it would provide financing for urban rail transport projects in Chinese cities which seek funds for such projects.
31 Chinese cities have urban rail systems, with a combined length of more than 4000 km.
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