Harbin-Dalian High-Speed Railway Achieves Major Milestone and Enhances Regional Connectivity

As of mid-June 2025, the Harbin-Dalian high-speed railway (HSR) has achieved a significant milestone by facilitating more than one billion passenger journeys. Operated by China Railway Harbin Bureau Group Co., this railway stands out as the first high-speed line in the world to function in high-latitude regions that experience severe winters.

Throughout its decade of operation, the Harbin-Dalian HSR has bridged crucial technological gaps that are necessary for maintaining high-speed train services in extremely cold weather conditions. The operator has implemented a comprehensive safety management framework that encompasses all necessary elements—from infrastructure and rolling stock to emergency response strategies—all specifically designed for high-altitude rail travel in frigid climates.

The railway has created a robust safety operation strategy to address challenges posed by snow and cold. This includes the introduction of a weather disaster early warning system, advanced procedures for snow and ice management, and a tiered approach for ensuring railway infrastructure remains operational during adverse weather. By utilizing various measures like heated track turnouts and coordinated train schedules based on snow accumulation, the line maintains safety and efficiency.

Since its inception on December 1, 2012, the Harbin-Dalian HSR has created a thorough safety management system that guarantees reliable operations in cold regions. This meticulous planning has improved travel times across major cities in northeast, north, central, and east China, significantly boosting the local economies along the route.

Furthermore, the operator has successfully tackled frost heave issues that typically hinder railway infrastructure in extreme cold, enabling trains to run at a constant speed of 300 kilometers per hour throughout the year. Looking ahead, the railway is set to connect with the Shenyang-Baishan High-Speed Railway later this year, creating a two-hour economic zone between several key northeastern cities. This development will enhance business connectivity, establishing a three-hour travel network linking all major northeastern locations to Beijing.