Hong Kong metro operator MTR Corporation has signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with the Longhua New District Administration Commission for extension of Shenzhen Metro Longhua Line to meet increasing demand for railway service. The proposed extension would run from the existing Qinghu Station northwa
Hong Kong metro operator MTR Corporation has signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with the Longhua New District Administration Commission for extension of Shenzhen Metro Longhua Line to meet increasing demand for railway service.
The proposed extension would run from the existing Qinghu Station northward to the Guanlan area, a golf resort destination in Shenzhen.
With this extension, travel time between Futian boundary crossing and Guanlan area will be less than an hour. The line has been operated by MTR Corporation (Shenzhen) since 2009.
Under the agreement, MTR will provide advice and technical support for the construction of the metro extension and a light rail line in Longhua. MTR will also advise on the integrated development of a rail transport hub from the planning stage.
MTR Corporation CEO Jay Walder said: "We are delighted to work with the Longhua authorities to explore opportunities for cooperation for metro development in the district.
Currently, about 410,000 commuters ride on Longhua Line every day. Due to growing ridership on the line, MTR Corporation (Shenzhen) converted two 4-car trains into 6-car trains which will be operational from 26 January 2014.
MTR intends to add more 6-car trains to enhance the capacity of Longhua Line. Capacity on the line is expected to increase by 50% on conversion of MTR's whole fleet into 6-car trains.