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Magnetic Connection between Beijing and Tianjin

Chinese and German experts recently held a discussion in Tianjin on the possibilities of building a magnetic levitation (maglev) train line between Beijing and Tianjin, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Experts hope the maglev train will help alleviate the expected traffic headaches in Beijing when it hosts the 2008 Games. According to the report, the number of passengers coming in and out of Beijing airport this year is estimated at more than 27 million, which will far exceed its capacity. Experts attending the discussion suggested the most simple and economical choice is to also use Tianjin airport, which has long played the role of a reserve airfield for Beijing. It is only 137 kilometres from Beijing airport. But some others believe the maglev line should not be used at this time because it could cost over 100 billion yuan (US$12 billion).

Maglev trains are not new to China. One is currently undergoing trials in Shanghai, and discussions are ongoing about the possibility of building one between Beijing and Shanghai.