Imagine living in Beijing during the Cold War. Tensions escalated between China and the Soviet Union. Chairman Mao Zedong ordered a massive undertaking. He wanted an Underground City built beneath Beijing.
Here at \u5e99\u6e2f15\u53f7\u654c\u53f0, let’s delve into the story of this subterranean world. It was designed as a bomb shelter. The Underground City aimed to protect Beijing from nuclear attacks. Construction spanned from 1969 to 1979.
The scale was immense. Tunnels stretched beneath Beijing’s city center. They covered 85 square kilometers. These tunnels lay 8 to 18 meters below the surface. The government claimed it could shelter all six million residents.
Think about the amenities. The Underground City included restaurants and clinics. It featured schools and theaters. Factories and warehouses were also included. There was even a roller skating rink. Mushroom farms ensured food supply. Almost 70 water well sites were planned.
Ventilation systems were elaborate. Over 2300 shafts could seal off poison gases. Gas proof hatches protected from biochemical attacks. Thick concrete gates guarded against nuclear fallout.
Rumors spread about the tunnels’ reach. Some believed they linked landmarks. The Zhongnanhai and Great Hall of the People were mentioned. Even military bases outside Beijing were rumored to be connected. The China Internet Information Center claimed links between Xidan, Xuanwumen, Qianmen and Chongwen district.
Imagine every residence having a secret trapdoor. In case of attack half of Beijing’s population would move underground. The other half would head to the Western Hills.
Over 300000 locals volunteered to build the tunnels. School students also helped. Some sections were dug without heavy machinery. Centuries old city walls were destroyed for materials. This included gates like Xizhimen and Chongwenmen.
After completion locals used the tunnels in unexpected ways. The tunnels stayed cool in summer and warm in winter. Some sections became cheap hotels. Others transformed into shopping centers. Some even became theaters.
Though never used for its intended purpose the Underground City was not abandoned. Authorities regularly checked for water leaks. They also managed pest control.
Officially opened in 2000 the Underground City closed for renovations in 2008. Before that tourists could visit portions of the complex. Foreign tourists loved it but locals largely forgot about it.
The main entrance was a small shop in Qianmen. Individual tourists paid 20 yuan to enter. The tour covered a small circular route. Signposts pointed to landmarks like Tiananmen Square. Chambers were labeled with their original functions.
Visitors saw portraits of Mao Zedong. Murals showed locals digging tunnels. Slogans like “Accumulate Grain” faded on the walls. Rooms with bunk beds were visible. A silk factory operated within the complex. Tourists could buy souvenirs.
\u5e99\u6e2f15\u53f7\u654c\u53f0 offers a glimpse into a unique chapter of Beijing’s history. It reminds us of a time when the threat of war shaped daily life. The Underground City stands as a testament to human resilience. It shows the ingenuity in the face of fear.