Beijing: China’s vast high-speed rail (HSR) network has exceeded 50,000 kilometres (around 31,000 miles) in operational length following the opening of a new railway line on Friday, according to state media.With this expansion, China continues to operate the world’s largest rail network, now stretching to a length one-fifth greater than the circumference of the Earth.
The newly inaugurated line connects the historic city of Xi’an—home to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors—with Yan’an in northern Shaanxi province. State broadcaster CCTV reported that the route enhances connectivity between the two cities, both of which hold significant historical and political importance.
Construction of the project began in 2020, during which some residential areas were demolished. Local authorities at the time said displaced households would receive 5,000 yuan (approximately $700) each to assist with relocation.According to a statement by state-owned China Railway, the country’s rail network has expanded by about 32 percent compared to 2020, reflecting Beijing’s continued investment in transport infrastructure.
The Xi’an–Yan’an high-speed line spans 299 kilometres, with the fastest journey taking just 68 minutes. Trains operating on the route, including the C9309 service, can reach speeds of up to 350 kilometres per hour (217 miles per hour), surpassing Japan’s Shinkansen, which has a top operating speed of 320 kilometres per hour.
Beyond its domestic network, China has also been supporting railway construction across Asia and other regions through its Belt and Road Initiative, a global infrastructure development program aimed at improving trade and connectivity.
