Recently, two high-speed railways with a design speed of 350 km/h, the Chongqing-Kunming and Xi’an-Chongqing lines, have achieved new progress in construction. Once completed, the Chongqing-Kunming line will reduce travel time between Chengdu and Kunming to just 3 hours.

Key Breakthrough in Chongqing-Kunming High-Speed Railway: Changshui Airport Tunnel Completed

On August 4, after nearly four years of continuous efforts, the Changshui Airport Tunnel—a critical and challenging section of the Chongqing-Kunming High-Speed Railway—was successfully completed, accelerating progress toward the line’s full opening.

The Changshui Airport Tunnel spans 8,770 meters, passing beneath operational zones, cargo routes, and runways of Kunming Changshui Airport, as well as the existing Shanghai-Kunming Railway. The complex geological conditions posed significant technical challenges during construction.

The tunnel’s completion provides a pathway for subsequent ballastless track laying and rail installation, ensuring a solid foundation for the timely opening of the entire Chongqing-Kunming line.

The Chongqing-Kunming High-Speed Railway is a key part of China’s “Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal” high-speed rail network, specifically the Beijing-Kunming corridor. Stretching approximately 700 km with a design speed of 350 km/h, the line is being constructed in phases. The Yibin East to Yibin section (15 km), shared with the Chengdu-Zigong-Yibin line, began operation on December 26, 2023. The Chongqing West to Yibin East section (192 km) opened on September 29, 2024, while the Yibin to Kunming South section (493 km) is currently under construction.

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Once fully operational, the Chongqing-Kunming line will cut travel time between Chongqing and Kunming from the current 5 hours to just 2 hours. By connecting with the Chengdu-Yibin High-Speed Railway, it will establish a seamless 350 km/h corridor from Chengdu to Kunming, reducing travel time to approximately 3 hours.

Miaojialiang Tunnel on Xi’an-Chongqing High-Speed Railway Successfully Completed

On August 2, the Miaojialiang Tunnel, part of the Xi’an-Chongqing High-Speed Railway’s Ankang-Chongqing section, was completed, marking a major milestone toward the line’s timely opening.

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Located in Chengkou County, Chongqing, the 1,285-meter tunnel traverses the eastern Qinling-Daba Mountains, where complex geological conditions presented significant construction challenges. Advanced risk prediction technologies, innovative dynamic construction methods, and real-time monitoring ensured safe completion.

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The Ankang-Chongqing section is a vital part of China’s high-speed rail network, spanning 478 km with a design speed of 350 km/h. Starting from Ankang West Station, it passes through Shaanxi’s Ankang, Chongqing’s Chengkou County, Sichuan’s Dazhou and Guang’an, and Chongqing’s Hechuan and Beibei districts before reaching Chongqing West Station.

Once operational, the Xi’an-Chongqing line will connect with existing and under-construction routes, including Chengdu-Chongqing, Zhengzhou-Chongqing, Chongqing-Kunming, Xi’an-Yan’an, and Xi’an-Shiyan lines, enhancing regional rail infrastructure and improving travel convenience for passengers.

Chongqing-Kunming High-Speed Railway

The Chongqing-Kunming High-Speed Railway is a major rail link in southwestern China, connecting Chongqing Municipality and Kunming, Yunnan Province. Opened in December 2020, it spans about 700 kilometers and significantly reduces travel time between the two cities to around 4.5 hours. The railway enhances regional connectivity, supports economic development, and traverses challenging mountainous terrain, showcasing China’s advanced high-speed rail engineering.

Xi’an-Chongqing High-Speed Railway

The Xi’an-Chongqing High-Speed Railway is a key rail link in China, connecting the ancient capital of Xi’an in Shaanxi Province with the major city of Chongqing. Opened in 2017, the 658-kilometer line reduces travel time between the two cities from over 10 hours to just 5 hours, boosting regional economic integration. It traverses the mountainous Qinling and Daba ranges, featuring numerous tunnels and bridges, and is part of China’s expansive high-speed rail network.

Changshui Airport Tunnel

The Changshui Airport Tunnel is a key transportation infrastructure in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China, connecting Kunming Changshui International Airport to the city center. Opened in 2012 alongside the airport, the tunnel facilitates efficient transit for travelers and reduces traffic congestion. Its construction was part of a broader effort to modernize Kunming’s transport network and support regional economic growth.

Kunming Changshui Airport

Kunming Changshui Airport is a major international airport in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China, opened in 2012 to replace the older Kunming Wujiaba Airport. Designed to resemble a traditional Chinese folding fan, it serves as a key aviation hub for Southwest China and gateway to Southeast Asia. The airport reflects Kunming’s strategic role in regional connectivity and tourism, handling millions of passengers annually.

Shanghai-Kunming Railway

The Shanghai-Kunming Railway, completed in 1970, is a major railway line in China spanning over 2,600 kilometers, connecting Shanghai in the east to Kunming in Yunnan Province. It plays a vital role in regional transportation and economic development, passing through several provinces including Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hunan, and Guizhou. The railway was constructed in phases, with some sections dating back to the early 20th century, and has since been modernized to support high-speed travel.

Miaojialiang Tunnel

The Miaojialiang Tunnel is a modern transportation infrastructure project in China, part of the extensive highway or railway network designed to improve connectivity in mountainous regions. While specific historical details are limited, such tunnels typically represent advancements in engineering to overcome geographic challenges, often reducing travel time and boosting regional economic development. The tunnel exemplifies China’s commitment to expanding and modernizing its transportation systems in difficult terrains.

Ankang West Station

Ankang West Station is a high-speed railway station located in Ankang, Shaanxi Province, China, serving as a key stop on the Xihan (Xi’an–Hanzhong) High-Speed Railway. Opened in 2017, it facilitates faster transportation in the mountainous Qinba region, promoting regional economic growth and connectivity. The station’s modern design reflects the city’s development while providing essential access for travelers and locals.

Chongqing West Station

Chongqing West Station is a major railway hub in Chongqing, China, opened in 2018 as part of the city’s expanding high-speed rail network. It serves as a key transportation link for southwestern China, connecting Chongqing with other major cities like Chengdu and Guiyang. The modern station reflects Chongqing’s rapid urban development and its role as a vital logistics and economic center in the region.