Shenzhen's Metro Line 13 has officially opened, offering enhanced connectivity and convenience for commuters, especially between Shenzhen and Hong Kong. The line's first segment, which runs from Shenzhen Bay Port to Gaoxinzhong Station, inaugurated at 10:18 AM on December 28, 2023, is part of the city's ambitious efforts to extend its urban transit network.
With the addition of Line 13, Shenzhen's metro system now measures 595.1 kilometers, featuring 417 stations. The new segment covers approximately 6.4 kilometers and includes seven stations: Shenzhen Bay Port Station, Rencai Park Station, Houhai Station, Keyuan Station, Yuehaimen Station, Shenda Station, and Gaoxinzhong Station. This line enhances movement between major districts such as Nanshan, Bao'an, and Guangming, greatly benefiting daily commuters.
The modern features of Line 13, including automated ticketing systems and biometric access, promise to streamline the commuting experience. These advancements include self-service ticketing machines and facial recognition technology for faster entry, which may significantly reduce wait times for passengers at busy stations. Travelers can expect to navigate the new system with ease, reflecting Shenzhen's commitment to smart urban transit solutions.
Mr. Hu, a local commuter and enthusiast stated, "Today is fantastic! It will be much easier to travel from Hong Kong!" Many people from Hong Kong came to witness the opening, highlighting the anticipated increase of cross-border travelers who rely on this efficient transportation link. The successful debut of Line 13 also sparked excitement among local train enthusiasts who eagerly awaited the opportunity to ride the first trains.
This new metro line marks the continuation of the expansion of Shenzhen's transit network aimed at uniting the Greater Bay Area, providing easy access to work and leisure for individuals from both sides of the border. The first phase of Line 13 includes four interchange stations, allowing seamless connections to existing lines such as Line 1, Line 2, Line 9, and Line 11. This will facilitate direct routes to key areas including the Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarters Base and the Houhai Central Business District.
Residents expressed their delight with the new line, which reduces the need for lengthy transfers. One commuter expressed relief, saying it used to take much longer to travel between the port and central areas. With the new line operational, the travel time from Shenzhen Bay Port to Gaoxinzhong Station is about 12 minutes, compared to previous transport methods.
Curtailment of previous bus routes along the new line is expected as many commuters shift to the metro for its efficiency and speed. This transition is expected to boost the ridership of the metro system significantly, potentially shifting how urban transport is prioritized.
To accommodate the influx of passengers, additional staff and signage have been deployed to guide travelers through the station, which is also optimized for high traffic during peak hours. A spokesperson from Hong Kong MTR Corporation mentioned, "The new line will significantly facilitate cross-border travel and connectivity within the Greater Bay Area," showcasing the line’s potential to transform regional movement.
The operational hours are from 6:30 AM to 11 PM, ensuring it caters to both early morning and late-night commuters. Ticket prices are set at economical rates, starting from just two yuan, enhancing accessibility for all users willing to explore Shenzhen conveniently.
Aside from the substantial transit enhancements, the opening day was marked by colorful events and activities, including live music and interactive stations, which engaged attending passengers. One standout feature was the artistic installations at stations, reflecting the blend of culture and technology Shenzhen aims to represent.
Shenzhen metro continues to make significant strides, as highlighted by the successful launch of Line 13. This metro line not only boosts transportation capacity but also strengthens the economic and social ties between Shenzhen and Hong Kong. The opening of Line 13 proves to be a milestone for the city’s urban infrastructure, promising to evolve transport dynamics for years to come.
