Golden waterway opened to fast link China's southwest with the sea

He noted that facing the complex working conditions of simultaneously building the waterway, transport hubs, and bridges along the canal, the project team launched technical research, innovated construction methods, and overcame a series of technical challenges, such as large-span steel pipe arch-rib hoisting and splicing.

"Throughout the entire process, we adhered to strict quality and safety standards, thereby ensuring the construction of a high-quality project with top standards and safeguarding the steady progress of this landmark project," Fan said.

Fan's colleague Xiao Yu stressed that as the Pinglu Canal becomes navigable, goods from the southwestern region and South China can directly reach the sea via this route, shortening the inland voyage by over 560 kilometers compared to traditional maritime routes.

"The shipping distance to major ports in ASEAN member states has been significantly reduced, lowering comprehensive logistics costs by 18 percent to 30 percent," Xiao said.

Xiao noted that this waterway can further amplify the radiating effect of the Western Land-Sea New Corridor and empower Guangxi to pursue better maritime development, opening a new chapter in China's western development, and building a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future.

Please contact the writer at hanjingyan@chinadaily.com.cn