The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link in south China’s Guangdong Province has officially passed construction acceptance and is set to open later this month. This monumental infrastructure project is poised to significantly enhance connectivity within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, reducing travel time between Shenzhen and Zhongshan to just 30 minutes, according to Guangdong Transportation Group.
Spanning approximately 24 kilometers across the Pearl River Estuary, the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link is a marvel of modern engineering. It comprises an underwater tunnel, two suspension bridges, and two artificial islands, making it one of the most challenging and ambitious cross-sea cluster projects ever undertaken.
Dubbed the “transportation backbone” of the Greater Bay Area, the link is expected to play a critical role in fostering economic integration and development across the region. By providing a direct route between the eastern and western banks of the Pearl River, it will facilitate smoother traffic flow, boost trade, and promote cultural exchange among the urban centers.
The underwater tunnel, a key component of the project, stretches for over six kilometers beneath the estuary, representing the world’s widest immersed tunnel. The construction involved cutting-edge techniques and overcame significant technical challenges, showcasing China’s advancements in large-scale infrastructure development.
The opening of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link is anticipated to stimulate regional economic growth by improving access and reducing transportation costs. It will enhance the connectivity of major cities within the Greater Bay Area, which is a vital hub for innovation, finance, and international trade.
As the Greater Bay Area continues to evolve into a world-class economic and technological powerhouse, the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link stands as a testament to the region’s ambition and engineering prowess. The project not only symbolizes infrastructural advancement but also heralds a new era of integrated development for southern China.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
