30 in 30 - 2000: Faster transportation

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Source: CCTV.com | 12-11-2008 09:08

China Today "30 in 30": 1978-2008>>

30 years ago, when China began to focus on economic growth, it had to bring its transport network up to speed. Roads and railways were limited, and domestic air travel almost non-existent. And so began massive projects to ease the flow of goods and materials as well as the migrant labour force.

On December 18th, 2000, a new express way linking two of  China's largest cities was completed after 13 years of  construction.

Today in our 30 in 30 series, we turn to the beginning of the 21st century, when the country's transport network expanded rapidly.

On December 18th, 2000, a new express way linking two of China's largest cities was completed after 13 years of construction.

Stretching 1,200 kilometers between capital Beijing and the economic center Shanghai, it was one of the longest in the country, built with the most advanced road-building technology at that time.

The highway was as wide as six lanes in some sections, and its flat road surface ensured smooth driving at high speeds.

The benefits were to reach 300 million people. Winding through six provinces and municipalities from north to east, the expressway linked Bohai and the Yangtze River Delta, the country's most dynamic economic regions. And along with people, capital and resources traveled between the complementary economies.

The railways were also in the high-speed pursuit. Improved technology and increasing investment allowed trains to maintain their dominance in transport.