BEIJING, November 2025 — The Shuozhou-Huanghua Railway, a vital artery for coal transportation in North China, has seen its operational efficiency and safety significantly enhanced following the completion of a critical bridge renovation project. This upgrade ensures the continued smooth flow of energy resources across the region, underscoring the importance of maintaining robust rail infrastructure.

The renovation focused on the grand bridge traversing the South Canal in Hebei province, a key component of the 594-kilometer Shuozhou-Huanghua Railway. Construction workers from China Railway No 4 Engineering Group (CREC4) successfully replaced a 65.1-meter steel truss beam and reinforced the bridge's foundation piles, abutments, and pier columns. This line, which commenced operation in May 2000, is a national first-class, double-track, electrified rail line and is recognized as the second largest and busiest heavy-duty railway in China, transporting approximately 350 million metric tons of coal annually.

The upgrade addresses potential safety hazards posed by the aging original steel truss girder, which was built in 2004 and had begun showing defects such as cracks in its web and connecting angle steel since 2013. By completely eliminating these issues, the renovation secures the integrity of this crucial energy supply route. The project also included the simultaneous completion of coordinated transition construction for essential track, contact network, and electrical cable systems.

This infrastructure enhancement is critical for maintaining the reliability of North China's energy supply chain. The Shuozhou-Huanghua Railway plays a pivotal role in the national economy, and ensuring its structural soundness is paramount. The proactive replacement of aging components prevents potential disruptions and supports the sustained movement of essential commodities.

Ultimately, the successful renovation of the South Canal Grand Bridge exemplifies the ongoing commitment to modernizing and safeguarding China's extensive rail network. Such investments are fundamental to supporting economic growth, ensuring energy security, and facilitating the efficient transport of bulk goods across the country, reinforcing the railway's position as a cornerstone of national logistics.

Source: Chinadaily.com.cn