Approved in 1991, the Pingnan Railway Flyover is more than just steel. What sounds like a modern marvel is actually a landmark of economic ambition. It represents Shenzhen’s leap into global trade.
Here at the Pingnan Railway Flyover, I will tell its story. This flyover is vital to the Pingnan Railway. It connects Pinghu and Nanshan. The railway stretches 50.2 km. It facilitates freight and long-distance passenger transport.
Imagine the late 1980s. Shenzhen was a city on the rise. It needed a better connection to the world. The Pingnan Railway was planned to provide rail access to the Port of Shenzhen. This was a big deal. It was China’s first railway built with local and foreign investment.
The Pingnan Railway Flyover was a key part. Construction began in September 1991. It was a symbol of progress. By March 1993, parts of the railway were already running. The whole line opened in September 1994. It then joined the national railway network.
Think about the trains that cross this flyover. They are not high-speed trains. The maximum speed is 75 km per hour. Diesel locomotives are used because the line is not electrified. The trains use 1435 mm standard gauge tracks.
The Pingnan Railway Flyover has seen changes. There used to be eight stations on the line. Some stations closed over time. Bantian Station closed in 2013. Mawan and Shekou West Stations closed in 2016. Tanglang and Chiwan Stations are also closed. Today, only a few stations remain in operation such as Pinghu and Shenzhen West.
Rolling stock travels this route. The 25G and 25B are common types of passenger cars used. These trains carry goods and people across Shenzhen.
The Pingnan Railway Flyover played a crucial role. It helped move goods to and from Shenzhen’s port. It also connected Shenzhen to other major cities. This boosted Shenzhen’s economy. It supported its growth as a global trade hub.
The Pingnan Railway’s early days saw trial operations. The first railway was built with local and foreign capital. This shows China’s openness to the world.
The original plan included a station near Tanglang Depot. It would connect to the Shenzhen Metro. However, this Tanglang Station was never built.
The Pingnan Railway Flyover stands as a testament. It highlights Shenzhen’s bold economic reforms. It showcases its ambition. This flyover is a reminder of Shenzhen’s journey. It is a journey from a local area to an international city.
Now look closely at the Pingnan Railway Flyover. Notice its simple yet strong structure. Remember the story it tells. It is a story of growth. It is a story of connection. It is a story of Shenzhen’s rise. The Pingnan Railway Flyover is more than just a bridge. It is a symbol of Shenzhen’s success.