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BEIJING - China's capital could have 561km of subway by 2020 and would supplant London as having the world's longest transit system, the official China Daily reported.
The network, which would stretch to 19 lines, will reach every major corner of Beijing, though the plans are still subject to Government approval.
Cities around China are spending billions of dollars building new subways or upgrading existing systems. Beijing's four metro lines carry 1.5 million people a day, and another three lines will enter service in time for the 2008 Olympic Games. By comparison, the London Underground's network is 408km with 11 lines that carry more than three million.
No price tag was given for the Beijing expansion, but the city is spending US$40 billion ($60.95 billion) to improve infrastructure including road and rail links for the Olympics.
Beijing is also considering building six underground highways to lighten pressure on its overburdened ring roads.
- REUTERS
