Line 1 of the Lanzhou Metro is a rapid‑transit line serving the city of Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province, People’s Republic of China. Operated by Lanzhou Rail Transit Co., Ltd., the line forms part of the Lanzhou Metro system, which is the first urban rail network in the province.
History and development
Construction of Line 1 began in 2014 as part of the municipal plan to alleviate traffic congestion and promote public transportation. The line entered commercial operation on 27 December 2020, marking the inauguration of metro service in Lanzhou.
Route and technical specifications
- Alignment: The line runs primarily in a north–south direction, linking key districts of the city, including Chengguan, Qilihe, and Yuzhong.
- Length: Approximately 25.9 kilometres (16.1 mi).
- Stations: 20 stations, all of which are underground.
- Track gauge: Standard gauge (1 435 mm).
- Electrification: Overhead catenary system supplying 1 500 V DC.
- Rolling stock: The line is operated with Type A, six‑car electric multiple units (EMUs) designed for high‑capacity urban service.
Operations
Line 1 provides frequent service throughout the day, with headways typically ranging from 5 to 8 minutes during peak periods. The line integrates with other planned and existing transit modes, including future metro lines and bus rapid‑transit corridors, to form a multimodal transport network for Lanzhou.
Impact
Since its opening, Line 1 has contributed to a reduction in road traffic volumes and travel times across the city, supporting Lanzhou’s broader objectives of sustainable urban development and emission reduction.
