A new light rail in northeastern China's coastal city of Tianjin will begin trial operations on Sunday, March 28th. 
 
A light rail line connecting Pinhai new development area to the downtown core of northeastern China's city of Tianjin will begin preliminary trial operations on Sunday, March 28th.

The line is the longest and fastest light rail line in China, with 46 kilometers of track and the capability of reaching speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour.

During the test period, the new line will operate for twelve hours a day.

Trains will depart every 25 minutes during regular hours and every 15 minutes during rush hours.

Ticket prices start at 3 yuan for the first 30 kilometers and reach 5 yuan, or about 60 US cents, for any additional distance traveled.

The new line will begin formal operations next year and will offer commuters faster travel time and long service hours.

(CRI.com March 25, 2004)