Tianjin, the largest port city in north China, will resume operation of its subway system -- currently closed for construction, in November 2005, said a news briefing on major projects of the municipality.

The main infrastructure for the "No.1 subway project," which will consist of open-air light rail and subway, has been completed, including elevated bridges and underground stops, the briefing said.

It is expected that 75 percent of the 26.2 km north-south No.1 subway project will have been finished by the end of this year, it said.

The project, an expansion of an existing 7.4-km-long subway line that suspended from operation in late 2001, began construction in 2002. The investment budget for the project is 6.9 billion yuan (about US$831 million).

Tianjin has drafted a blueprint regarding the establishment of a fast track transport network by 2050. In accordance to the plan, the city will construct seven new tracks totaling 154 km, including the second and the third subway projects.

Preparation for the second subway project, with a length of 22.6 km, and the third subway project, with a length of 26 km, is underway, the briefing said.

(Xinhua News Agency October 18, 2004)