The Great Train
Fastest Train
China has now introduced the fastest train, with speeds going upto 350kph.
Now that China has this train, it is proposing to create rail links to Singapour and Europe. The rail line to South East Asia is already underway. Two possible routes are being considered for the Eupopean link. The first going north through China to Russia, then west to Germany. The second route being considered is going west through India, Pakistan and the middle east to Europe. Whichever one they choose, they hope to of completed the work in the next ten years.
It is mainly being considered for the movement of frieght. The journey from Europe to China is estimated to take 2 days, with the train moving at speeds upto the 350kph. This would greatly reduce the current time for freight which mainly goes by ship.
Currently however, freight costs by ship are relitively low. I am sure though that the difference in travel time will ensure a fairly steady business.
My concern is, that to make this route financially viable, they will have to also consider carrying passengers. I am sure it would be a great journey, passing through several countries, giving a diversity of scenery along the route. The 8000km route would also have to pass through some very isolated countryside which brings with it greater risks, considering todays terrorist activities. The terminals could resemble airports with all their upgraded security ensuring passengers are well screened for weapons and explosives but what of the track?
Is this route really a recipe for disaster? It will be very hard to patrol the whole route at regular enough times to be certain that the train would be 100% free from a terror attack.
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