The Zhuangzhai to Lankao section of the Rizhao-Lankao High-speed Railway began operations on July 18, marking the completion of the entire route.

This railway, the second high-speed corridor between Shandong and Henan provinces, will reduce travel time between Rizhao in Shandong province and Lankao in Henan province, with the fastest journey now taking just 2 hours and 26 minutes.

An economic development corridor thrives not only on a robust port but also on a well-connected hinterland. Rizhao Port, a global hub for energy and raw material transshipment, handled an impressive 522 million metric tons of cargo in 2023.

With Rizhao Port serving as a gateway to the sea, the Rizhao-Lankao High-speed Railway seamlessly connects cities like Rizhao, Linyi, Jining, and Heze, while also opening up opportunities for Kaifeng and Zhengzhou in Henan province to join the economic network.

The launch of the Rizhao-Lankao High-speed Railway is poised to invigorate passenger movement, accelerating urbanization along the route.

The full operation of the Rizhao-Lankao High-speed Railway holds immense significance, further enhancing the region's transportation network, facilitating convenient travel for local residents, and expediting the development of tourism resources. It will undoubtedly promote personnel exchanges, economic interactions, and the overall high-quality development of the regional economy and society.