 People's Republic of China Operating Lines Anshan Beijing Changchun Dalian Guangzhou Hong Kong Shanghai Tianjin Planned or Under Construction Chengdu Chongqing Harbin Kunming Macao Nanjing Qingdao Shenyang Shenzhen Suzhou Wuhan Wuxi Xi'an Zhengzhou |
  Above photos courtesy Allen Zagel Beijing Metro and light rail Beijing's subway serves this 10 million population capital (oops, my mistake - capitol) with three lines totaling 55.5 km. Many, many more lines are on the way. Line 1, which is currently being extended, opened in 1969. It serves the western suburbs and is also known as the Fu Ba Line. Until 1980, the line was forbidden to all but Chinese. And speaking of forbidden, the line run right underneath the forbidden city, but you aren't allowed to go there. You can, however, get out at Tiananmen Square, but don't forget to bring your tear gas and protective eyewear. Line two, opened in 1984, is a 16 km city circle line which runs beneath Beijing's second ring road. It's stops carry the names of the ancient city gates, some of which still stand. Future Lines: According to Beijing Scene, "it is an open secret that there are subway lines under the city utilized only by the armed forces" Currently, 18 new lines totaling 408 kilometers are either planned or under construction. Line 4 is about to begin construction. The first section of the 20.5 km line is due to open in 2004. Line 5 will consist of 27.7 km and
24 stations ( What happened to 3 and 4? It
appears they've yet to be built.) is currently under construction and
to be
completed in 2005. The 26.5 km line 9, which includes consisting of 26.5km,
including 19.5km underground and 7km of elevated. Fifteen stops will be
underground, and 5 will be elevated. Revenue service is due to begin in 2004,
with full completion of the line in 2009.
The second light rail line,
opened in 2004.
A brief report from the American Public Transit Association describes the
first LRT line, which runs northwest-northeast.
2.8 km will be
allegedly be underground.
The People's Daily reports further details on the line's
route and progress. |
