Shenzhen-Hong Kong high-speed rail network undergoes major expansion

In a significant development for regional transportation, the high-speed rail network between Shenzhen and Hong Kong is set to undergo a major expansion with 18 more trains slated to commence operations from July 1, Shenzhen Railway Station told China Daily on Thursday.

"The change is part of a bigger operating plan adjustment of the China State Railway Group and it is based on a growing tourist demand since the resuming of high-speed rail services between Shenzhen and Hong Kong in January," said Guo Chenghai, head of Shenzhen Railway Station's public relation team.

According to Guo, the expansion is also expected to revolutionize travel between the two bustling cities by providing travelers with a faster, more comfortable, and efficient mode of transportation.

"With reduced travel times and increased frequency of services, commuters and tourists alike can look forward to enhanced connectivity and convenience," Guo added.

Under the new plan, the total number of trains running between Shenzhen North Station and Hong Kong's West Kowloon Station will be 139, with 51 of them being direct trains and the remaining 88 making a stop along the way. It will be an increase of 10 trains compared to the current schedule.

Meanwhile there will be 62 direct trains and 28 trains making a stop at Shenzhen's Futian Station to West Kowloon, an increase of 32 trains.

As for Guangmingcheng Station, a station in Guangming district, north of Shenzhen, there will be 10 trains making a stop at Guangmingcheng before going to Hong Kong's West Kowloon, an increase of 3 trains.

As a result, a total of 18 additional trains will be added apart from those trains that will make more than one stop at the former three stations.

Tian Kai, a businessman from Shenzhen said: "The expanded railway between Shenzhen and Hong Kong has greatly enhanced the quality of life for residents in both cities. It has not only facilitated seamless travel but also fostered cultural exchange and integration. I have been able to explore the vibrant art scene in Hong Kong and enjoy the scenic beauty of Shenzhen with ease, enriching my life in countless ways."

Guan Tong, a student from the Chinese University of Hong Kong said: "As a student, the expanded railway work has been a game-changer for my education. I can now attend to school while residing in Shenzhen. The improved connectivity has given me easier access to visit my relatives in the mainland."

Railway services between Shenzhen and Hong Kong had undergone a three-year suspension due to the outbreak of COVID-19, however, since the resuming of the service, the number of passengers had been soaring over the recent months. Over 1 million riders used their services in May according to an approximate study of Shenzhen Railway Station.