CHANGCHUN, Aug. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Phase I project of Changchun Rail Transit Line 7 went into operation on Wednesday, according to China Railway Construction Corporation Limited (CRCC). With this addition, the city's operational metro network expands from six to seven lines, with total length rising from 151.4 km to 174.6 km and station count increasing from 131 to 150, significantly improving cross-district travel efficiency for residents.
The 23.16-km Line 7, all underground, comprises 19 stations, including eight interchange stations that connect with Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Running through five districts – Qikai, Chaoyang, Nanguan, Jingkai and Erdao – it becomes the city's metro line with the most interchanges, serving as a key "transfer artery" for the urban rail network.
The project adopts "Galloping Era" as its core cultural theme, reflecting Changchun's deep-rooted industrial heritage and spirit of innovation. Station designs feature a combination of "one station, one scene" and unified standard elements, integrating the city's rich industrial development history into the underground space, turning metro stations into windows showcasing the city's industrial culture.
The shield tunneling sections undertaken by China Railway 25th Bureau Group Co., Ltd. are all located beneath major urban roads, facing challenging conditions including unstable water-rich sand layers, dense surrounding buildings, and intricate underground pipelines. The project team innovatively adopted a "three-synchronization" approach covering excavation mode, grouting reinforcement and construction monitoring, adjusting boring parameters in real time based on tunnel face observations. This not only protected the cutters but also improved efficiency, setting a record of 20 rings per day. During the underpass operations, deformation of the metro line was kept below 5 mm, and ground and building settlements were within 7 mm, effectively preventing track deviation and road subsidence risks. As a vivid practice of Shenzhen Metro's commitment to smart construction and green development, Lishan Station has provided a replicable and scalable "CRCC solution" for similar subway station projects across the country. Going forward, the project team will strictly adhere to safety standards and accelerate the remaining construction work on Shenzhen Metro Line 27, injecting strong momentum into the development of the "railway-based Greater Bay Area."
The opening of Line 7 strengthens connectivity between the southwestern area and the city center, shortens cross-district commuting time, and eases ground traffic congestion. It is of great significance for activating regional development momentum and boosting the economic potential of the areas it serves.
