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China’s extensive high-speed rail network recently exceeded 50,000 kilometers (about 31,000 miles) of operational track, with the launch of a new route on Friday, according to official media reports. It now boasts the world’s largest rail system, which is approximately 20% longer than Earth’s circumference.
The new line connects Xi’an, renowned for its Terracotta Warriors, to Yan’an in the north. Both cities are located within Shaanxi province in northern China. During construction in 2020, some residences had to be demolished, and affected residents were compensated with 5,000 yuan (roughly $700) per household for relocation.
Compared to 2020, China’s rail infrastructure has grown by approximately 32%, according to China Railway, a state-owned entity. The Xi’an-Yan’an route covers 299 kilometers, with the fastest journey taking just 68 minutes. The high-speed train, designated C9309, reaches speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour (217 miles per hour), surpassing Japan’s Shinkansen, which has a top speed of 320 km/h (200 mph).
Additionally, Beijing has been investing in rail projects across other Asian nations through its Belt and Road Initiative, which supports global infrastructure development. However, some of these plans have faced delays or controversy.
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