The first three lines of Shenyang’s new light rail system have opened ahead of China’s National Games at the end of the month.
Once complete, the new tram network will cover 70 kilometres and call at 65 stations around the city.
Lines 1, 2 and 5 are now all in operation, with line 3 due to open soon.
The network’s first challenge will come on August 31 when the 12th National Games of the People’s Republic of China officially begins at the Shenyang Olympic Sports Center Stadium.
“The tram Shenyang is particularly symbolic as it is the first Modern tram in China, operating without catenary on some sections,” said François-Xavier Perin, president of RATP Dev, and Jean-Marc Janaillac, president of Transdev.
“The commissioning comes less than four months after the signing operating contract. For our teams to be ready in such a short time has been a challenge.”
RATP Dev and Transdev were awarded a 49 per cent stake in the Shenyang tram network in April. The contract requires the French consortium to operate and maintain the system for three years, while the city’s government retains the majority stake holding.
There are also plans to extend the system, with lines 4 and 6 already being considered.
