From March 1 to 20, the Nanjing-Ma’anshan Regional (Suburban) Railway (Nanjing-Ma’anshan Intercity Railway / Line S2) is officially conducting schedule-based trial runs, entering the final sprint phase before its official opening.

The new route was invested and constructed by a consortium led by China Railway (Shanghai) Investment Group. The current running-to-chart phase is a non-passenger trial operation that simulates the planned train schedule. The trial consists of two phases: an initial pre-trial run from January 21 to February 12, followed by the current formal trial run from March 1 to 20.

According to officials in charge of construction and operation, the initial pre-trial phase featured shorter daily operating hours to screen and adjust eight key performance indicators, including punctuality, schedule fulfillment, and service reliability. During the formal trial, the line will strictly adhere to the post-opening schedule, simulating a real operational environment to rigorously test technical parameters and the reliability, safety, and accuracy of all equipment systems. Once the trial is successfully completed, the line will be certified for commercial operation.

Upon commencement of service, the travel time between Nanjing and Ma’anshan will be reduced to 30 minutes, realizing a “half-an-hour” metropolitan circle. This will facilitate resource sharing, talent exchange, and collaborative innovation, driving regional industrial and innovative synergy. (Photo by Zhao Yaling)